Meningoencephalitis with malacia caused by Sarcocystis calchasi in a rock pigeon in Japan.

Sarcocystis spp. cause pigeon protozoan encephalitis, a neuronal disease. A female pigeon exhibiting torticollis had a necrotic area in the cerebral hemisphere surrounded by lesions with perivascular cuffing, gliosis, granulomatous foci, and meningitis. Non-necrotic lesions were also observed in the brainstem. Intact and degenerative schizonts were observed within the neuropils and neurons in the lesions. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted from paraffin-embedded brain tissues and genetically analyzed after gel electrophoresis to determine Sarcocystis spp. using specific primer sets for 28S ribosomal ribonucleic acid and internal transcribed spacer region-1. DNA sequencing confirmed a significant homology with S. calchasi. This is the first report of meningoencephalitis with malacia caused by S. calchasi in a rock pigeon in Japan.

The Aerodynamic Effect of Biomimetic Pigeon Feathered Wing on a 1-DoF Flapping Mechanism.

This study focused on designing a single-degree-of-freedom (1-DoF) mechanism emulating the wings of rock pigeons. Three wing models were created: one with REAL feathers from a pigeon, and the other two models with 3D-printed artificial remiges made using different strengths of material, PLA and PETG. Aerodynamic performance was assessed in a wind tunnel under both stationary (0 m/s) and cruising speed (16 m/s) with flapping frequencies from 3.0 to 6.0 Hz. The stiffness of remiges was examined through three-point bending tests. The artificial feathers made of PLA have greater rigidity than REAL feathers, while PETG, on the other hand, exhibits the weakest strength. At cruising speed, although the artificial feathers exhibit more noticeable feather splitting and more pronounced fluctuations in lift during the flapping process compared to REAL feathers due to the differences in weight and stiffness distribution, the PETG feathered wing showed the highest lift enhancement (28% of pigeon body weight), while the PLA feathered wing had high thrust but doubled drag, making them inefficient in cruising. The PETG feathered wing provided better propulsion efficiency than the REAL feathered wing. Despite their weight, artificial feathered wings outperformed REAL feathers in 1-DoF flapping motion. This study shows the potential for artificial feathers in improving the flight performance of Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicles (FWMAVs).

DOES PREENING BEHAVIOR REDUCE THE PREVALENCE OF AVIAN FEATHER LICE (PHTHIRAPTERA: ISCHNOCERA)?

Animals defend themselves against parasites in many ways. Defenses, such as physiological immune responses, are capable of clearing some infections. External parasites that do not feed on blood, however, are not controlled by the physiological immune system. Instead, ectoparasites like feather-feeding lice (Phthiraptera: Ischnocera) are primarily controlled by behavioral defenses such as preening. Here we test the hypothesis that birds able to preen are capable of clearing infestations of feather lice. We experimentally manipulated preening ability in a captive population of rock pigeons (Columba livia) that were infested with identical numbers of feather lice (Columbicola columbae or Campanulotes compar or both). We then monitored the feather louse infestations for 42 wk. Birds with impaired preening remained infested throughout the experiment; in contrast, the prevalence of lice on birds that could preen normally decreased by 50%. These data indicate that it is indeed possible for birds to clear themselves of feather lice, and perhaps other ectoparasites, by preening. We note, however, that captive birds spend more time preening than wild birds, and that they are less likely to be reinfested than wild birds. Thus, additional studies are necessary to determine under what circumstances wild birds can clear themselves of ectoparasites by preening.

Prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in Wild Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) in Punjab region, Pakistan / Prevalência e diversidade de ectoparasitas em Wild Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) na região de Punjab, Paquistão

Abstract The current study was carried out to estimate the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in rock pigeons in different regions of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 120 birds were captured from March 2017 to February 2019. The ectoparasites were collected by standard procedures and preserved in 70% ethanol containing one drop of glycerin. Data related to age, health status, sex, type of area, sampling location and season were collected using a standardized form. Ectoparasites were identified based on morphological characteristics by using identification keys. Ninety-six (80%) birds were infested with ectoparasites. A total of seven families and thirteen species of different ectoparasites were observed. Mainly, seven species of lice, two species of flies, one species of tick and three species of mites were recovered from infested birds. The female pigeons were more often infested (89.02%) than male pigeons (60.52%). The prevalence was found higher during summer (100%) as compared to other seasons. The infestation rate was higher in Industrial area (97.50%) as compared to other regions. The highest prevalence of ectoparasites (100%) was recorded from Sargodha district. There was significant (P < 0.05) variation among number of ectoparasites on wing, chest, tail and neck within age groups, seasons and ecological zones. The occurrence of parasites in relation to area, age, health status, sex and season were significant. The infestation rate of parasites in rock pigeon is high in different districts of Punjab. It is recommended that these wild birds infested with multiple species of ectoparasites could be the potential source of infestations in domesticated birds if they come in contact with them. The contact of domesticated birds should be prevented from wild birds to minimize the chance of cross species transmission of ectoparasites.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado para estimar a prevalência e diversidade de ectoparasitas em pombos-das-rochas em diferentes regiões de Punjab, Paquistão. Um total de 120 aves foram capturadas de março de 2017 a fevereiro de 2019. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados por procedimentos padrão e preservados em etanol 70% contendo uma gota de glicerina. Os dados relativos à idade, estado de saúde, sexo, tipo de área, local de amostragem e época do ano foram coletados em formulário padronizado. Os ectoparasitas foram identificados com base nas características morfológicas por meio de chaves de identificação. Noventa e seis (80%) aves estavam infestadas com ectoparasitas. Um total de sete famílias e treze espécies de diferentes ectoparasitas foram observados. Principalmente, sete espécies de piolhos, duas espécies de moscas, uma espécie de carrapato e três espécies de ácaros foram recuperadas de aves infestadas. Os pombos fêmeas foram infestados mais frequentemente (89,02%) do que os pombos machos (60,52%). A prevalência encontrada foi maior no verão (100%) em comparação com as outras estações. A taxa de infestação foi maior na área Industrial (97,50%) em relação às demais regiões. A maior prevalência de ectoparasitas (100%) foi registrada no distrito de Sargodha. Houve variação significativa (P <0,05) entre o número de ectoparasitas na asa, tórax, cauda e pescoço dentro das faixas etárias, estações do ano e zonas ecológicas. A ocorrência de parasitas em relação à área, idade, estado de saúde, sexo e estação do ano foi significativa. A taxa de infestação de parasitas em pombo-correio é alta em diferentes distritos de Punjab. Recomenda-se que essas aves selvagens infestadas com várias espécies de ectoparasitas possam ser a fonte potencial de infestações em aves domesticadas se entrarem em contato com elas. O contato de aves domesticadas deve ser evitado com aves selvagens para minimizar a chance de transmissão cruzada de ectoparasitas.

Prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in Wild Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) in Punjab region, Pakistan / Prevalência e diversidade de ectoparasitas em Wild Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) na região de Punjab, Paquistão

The current study was carried out to estimate the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in rock pigeons in different regions of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 120 birds were captured from March 2017 to February 2019. The ectoparasites were collected by standard procedures and preserved in 70% ethanol containing one drop of glycerin. Data related to age, health status, sex, type of area, sampling location and season were collected using a standardized form. Ectoparasites were identified based on morphological characteristics by using identification keys. Ninety-six (80%) birds were infested with ectoparasites. A total of seven families and thirteen species of different ectoparasites were observed. Mainly, seven species of lice, two species of flies, one species of tick and three species of mites were recovered from infested birds. The female pigeons were more often infested (89.02%) than male pigeons (60.52%). The prevalence was found higher during summer (100%) as compared to other seasons. The infestation rate was higher in Industrial area (97.50%) as compared to other regions. The highest prevalence of ectoparasites (100%) was recorded from Sargodha district. There was significant (P < 0.05) variation among number of ectoparasites on wing, chest, tail and neck within age groups, seasons and ecological zones. The occurrence of parasites in relation to area, age, health status, sex and season were significant. The infestation rate of parasites in rock pigeon is high in different districts of Punjab. It is recommended that these wild birds infested with multiple species of ectoparasites could be the potential source of infestations in domesticated birds if they come in contact with them. The contact of domesticated birds should be prevented from wild birds to minimize the chance of cross species transmission of ectoparasites.

O presente estudo foi realizado para estimar a prevalência e diversidade de ectoparasitas em pombos-das-rochas em diferentes regiões de Punjab, Paquistão. Um total de 120 aves foram capturadas de março de 2017 a fevereiro de 2019. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados por procedimentos padrão e preservados em etanol 70% contendo uma gota de glicerina. Os dados relativos à idade, estado de saúde, sexo, tipo de área, local de amostragem e época do ano foram coletados em formulário padronizado. Os ectoparasitas foram identificados com base nas características morfológicas por meio de chaves de identificação. Noventa e seis (80%) aves estavam infestadas com ectoparasitas. Um total de sete famílias e treze espécies de diferentes ectoparasitas foram observados. Principalmente, sete espécies de piolhos, duas espécies de moscas, uma espécie de carrapato e três espécies de ácaros foram recuperadas de aves infestadas. Os pombos fêmeas foram infestados mais frequentemente (89,02%) do que os pombos machos (60,52%). A prevalência encontrada foi maior no verão (100%) em comparação com as outras estações. A taxa de infestação foi maior na área Industrial (97,50%) em relação às demais regiões. A maior prevalência de ectoparasitas (100%) foi registrada no distrito de Sargodha. Houve variação significativa (P <0,05) entre o número de ectoparasitas na asa, tórax, cauda e pescoço dentro das faixas etárias, estações do ano e zonas ecológicas. A ocorrência de parasitas em relação à área, idade, estado de saúde, sexo e estação do ano foi significativa. A taxa de infestação de parasitas em pombo-correio é alta em diferentes distritos de Punjab. Recomenda-se que essas aves selvagens infestadas com várias espécies de ectoparasitas possam ser a fonte potencial de infestações em aves domesticadas se entrarem em contato com elas. O contato de aves domesticadas deve ser evitado com aves selvagens para minimizar a chance de transmissão cruzada de ectoparasitas.

Prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in Wild Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) in Punjab region, Pakistan

Abstract The current study was carried out to estimate the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in rock pigeons in different regions of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 120 birds were captured from March 2017 to February 2019. The ectoparasites were collected by standard procedures and preserved in 70% ethanol containing one drop of glycerin. Data related to age, health status, sex, type of area, sampling location and season were collected using a standardized form. Ectoparasites were identified based on morphological characteristics by using identification keys. Ninety-six (80%) birds were infested with ectoparasites. A total of seven families and thirteen species of different ectoparasites were observed. Mainly, seven species of lice, two species of flies, one species of tick and three species of mites were recovered from infested birds. The female pigeons were more often infested (89.02%) than male pigeons (60.52%). The prevalence was found higher during summer (100%) as compared to other seasons. The infestation rate was higher in Industrial area (97.50%) as compared to other regions. The highest prevalence of ectoparasites (100%) was recorded from Sargodha district. There was significant (P 0.05) variation among number of ectoparasites on wing, chest, tail and neck within age groups, seasons and ecological zones. The occurrence of parasites in relation to area, age, health status, sex and season were significant. The infestation rate of parasites in rock pigeon is high in different districts of Punjab. It is recommended that these wild birds infested with multiple species of ectoparasites could be the potential source of infestations in domesticated birds if they come in contact with them. The contact of domesticated birds should be prevented from wild birds to minimize the chance of cross species transmission of ectoparasites.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado para estimar a prevalência e diversidade de ectoparasitas em pombos-das-rochas em diferentes regiões de Punjab, Paquistão. Um total de 120 aves foram capturadas de março de 2017 a fevereiro de 2019. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados por procedimentos padrão e preservados em etanol 70% contendo uma gota de glicerina. Os dados relativos à idade, estado de saúde, sexo, tipo de área, local de amostragem e época do ano foram coletados em formulário padronizado. Os ectoparasitas foram identificados com base nas características morfológicas por meio de chaves de identificação. Noventa e seis (80%) aves estavam infestadas com ectoparasitas. Um total de sete famílias e treze espécies de diferentes ectoparasitas foram observados. Principalmente, sete espécies de piolhos, duas espécies de moscas, uma espécie de carrapato e três espécies de ácaros foram recuperadas de aves infestadas. Os pombos fêmeas foram infestados mais frequentemente (89,02%) do que os pombos machos (60,52%). A prevalência encontrada foi maior no verão (100%) em comparação com as outras estações. A taxa de infestação foi maior na área Industrial (97,50%) em relação às demais regiões. A maior prevalência de ectoparasitas (100%) foi registrada no distrito de Sargodha. Houve variação significativa (P 0,05) entre o número de ectoparasitas na asa, tórax, cauda e pescoço dentro das faixas etárias, estações do ano e zonas ecológicas. A ocorrência de parasitas em relação à área, idade, estado de saúde, sexo e estação do ano foi significativa. A taxa de infestação de parasitas em pombo-correio é alta em diferentes distritos de Punjab. Recomenda-se que essas aves selvagens infestadas com várias espécies de ectoparasitas possam ser a fonte potencial de infestações em aves domesticadas se entrarem em contato com elas. O contato de aves domesticadas deve ser evitado com aves selvagens para minimizar a chance de transmissão cruzada de ectoparasitas.

Whole-genome sequencing revealed different demographic histories among the Korean endemic hill pigeon (Columba rupestris), rock pigeon (Columba livia var. domestica) and oriental turtle dove (Streptopelia orientalis).

BACKGROUND: The family Columbidae is known as the pigeon family and contains approximately 351 species and 50 genera. Compared to the wealth of biological and genomic information on these Columba livia var. domesteca, information on Columba rupestris and Streptopelia orientalis has been rather limited. The C. rupestris population size is decreasing in Korea. OBJECTIVES: Whole-genome sequencing and identification of population characterization of each species based genome variation on 9 Korean pigeon and dove samples, namely, six hill pigeon (C. rupestris), one rock pigeon (C. livia var. domestica) and two oriental turtle dove (S. orientalis) samples. RESULTS: The whole genome of 9 genotypes were sequenced and mapped to the C. livia reference genome. Sequence alignment showed over 96% identity in C. rupestris and 94% identity in S. orientalis to the reference genome (GenBank assembly accession: GCA_001887795.1). Sequence variations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions and deletions (InDels), and structural variations, revealed that intergenus (Columba vs. Streptopelia) variations were approximately four times higher than intragenus variations (C. livia vs. C. rupestris). Of the two Columba species, C. livia var. domestica is closer to S. orientalis than C. rupestris. Pairwise sequentially Markovian coalescent (PSMC) demographic history analysis revealed that the three species underwent a common population bottleneck between 105 and 120 Kya; since then, the effective population sizes of the rock pigeon and oriental turtle dove have increased. CONCLUSION: The effective population size of the hill pigeon, an Endangered Species of Grade II in Korea, has increased slowly from the second severe bottleneck that occurred approximately 0.5-1.4 × 104 years ago. Our results showed no relationship between copy number variation in the Norrie disease protein (NDP) regulatory regions and plumage color patterns. We report the first comparative analysis of three pigeon genomes.

Transcriptome resequencing data for rock pigeon (Columba livia).

OBJECTIVE: How do birds navigate their way? It is one of the interesting question about homing pigeons, however the genetic of navigation has reminded as a puzzle. Optic lobe, olfactory bulb, hippocampus and cere were collected for RNA sampling. The generated RNA-seq represent RNA resequencing data for racing homer (homing) pigeon and other rock pigeon breeds. The obtained data set can provide new insight about hippocampus role and GSR contribution to pigeon magnetoreception. DATA DESCRIPTION: To investigate the navigation ability of rock pigeon breeds, 60 whole transcriptome sequence data sets related to homing pigeon, Shiraz tumblers, feral pigeons and Persian high flyers were obtained. RNA extraction was performed from three brain regions (optic lobe, olfactory bulb, hippocampus) and cere. Paired-end 150 bp short reads (Library size 350 bp) were sequenced by Illumina Hiseq 2000. In this way, about 342.1 Gbp and 130.3 Gb data were provided. The whole transcriptome data sets have been deposited at the NCBI SRA database (PRJNA532674). The submitted data set may play critical role to describe the mechanism of navigation ability of rock pigeon breeds.

Whole genome resequencing data for rock pigeon (Columba livia).

OBJECTIVE: Navigation is the most important feature of homing pigeons, however no integrated response to genetic mechanism of navigation has been reported. The generated data herein represent whole-genome resequencing data for homing pigeon and three other breeds of rock pigeons. Selective sweep analysis between homing pigeon and other breeds of rock pigeon can provide new insight about identification of candidate genes and biological pathways for homing pigeon ability. DATA DESCRIPTION: Whole-genomes sequence data related to 95 birds from four breeds of rock pigeons including, 29 feral pigeons, 24 Shiraz tumblers, 24 Persian high flyers and 18 homing pigeons were provided. More than 6.94 billion short reads with coverage (average ≈7.50 x) and 407.1 Gb data were produced. Whole genome sequencing was carried out on the Illumina Hiseq 2000 platform using a 350 bp library size and 150 bp paired-end read lengths. The whole genome sequencing data have been submitted at the NCBI SRA Database (PRJNA532675). The presented data set can provide useful genomic information to explain the genetic mechanism of navigation ability of homing pigeons and also testing other genetic hypothesis by genomic analysis.

Ultrastructural and histological descriptions of the oropharyngeal cavity of the rock pigeon Columba livia dakhlae with special refer to its adaptive dietary adaptations.

The current investigation gave a full ultrastructural and histological description of the oropharyngeal cavity of the rock-pigeon Columba livia dakhlae. Our study carried on 10 heads of adult rock pigeons by gross, scanning, and light microscopic examination, in addition to the immunohistochemical analysis of the cytokeratin of the dorsal surface mucosa epithelium and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression (PCNA) immunoreactivity. The pointed apex of the elongated tongue covered rostrally and laterally with numerous caudally directed scales-like papillae. The dorsal surface of the apex and body was covered with numerous caudally directed scales-like filiform papillae. The U-shaped transverse papillary crest carried caudally directed pointed triangular conical papillae with two giant papillae. The elevated caudal area of the lingual body contains little numbers of the opening of the lingual gland. The laryngeal mound is divided into two symmetrical halves by rostral fissure and caudal laryngeal fissure into the right and left half. There were four palatine ridges: two lateral, middle, and median ridges. The choanal field bounded by the two lateral palatine ridges and containing the median choanae. The rostral part of the palatine cleft bounded laterally by a line of the small caudally directed conical papillae, while the caudal part was free from these papillae. There was a little number of taste buds in the palate. The high magnification of the rostral part of the beak is covered with directed rods-like projections. In conclusion, the obtained results described the adaptations of the tongue and its belonged structures with the feeding demand of the rock-pigeon.

Gut Bacteria of Columbia livia Are a Potential Source of Anti-Tumour Molecules.

OBJECTIVES: The overall aim was to determine whether gut bacteria of Columbia livia are a potential source of antitumour molecules. METHODS: Faecal and gut microbiota of Columbia livia were isolated, identified and conditioned media were prepared containing metabolites. Growth inhibition, lactate dehydrogenase cytotoxicity and cell survival assays were accomplished against cervical cancer cells. Next, liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry was conducted to elucidate the molecules present. RESULTS: A plethora of bacteria from faecal matter and gastrointestinal tract were isolated. Selected conditioned media exhibited potent anticancer effects and displayed cytotoxicity to cervical cancer cells at IC50 concentration of 10.65 and 15.19 µg/ml. Moreover, cells treated with conditioned media exhibited morphological changes, including cell shrinking and rounding; indicative of apoptosis, when compared to untreated cells. A total of 111 and 71 molecules were revealed from these gut and faecal metabolites. The identity of 60 molecules were revealed including, dihydroxymelphalan. Nonetheless, 122 molecules remain unidentified and are the subject of future studies. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that gut bacteria of Columbia livia possess molecules, which may have anticancer activities. Further in silico testing and/or high throughput screening will determine potential anticancer properties of these molecules.
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Feeding ecology of blue rock pigeon (Columba livia) in the three districts of Punjab, Pakistan / Ecologia de alimentação do pombo-da-rocha-azul (Columba livia) nos três distritos de Punjab, Paquistão

Abstract Present paper provides information on the feeding regimens of the two genders of the blue-rock pigeon (Columba livia Linn.) in the sampled habitats of the three districts viz. Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Bahawalpur of the Punjab province, Pakistan. This feral pigeon, considered ubiquitous species, inhabits both the grasslands and clumped environments to establish their roosts and nests. The study explored about comparable feeding proportions from three major habitats of the pigeons which were captured with medium sized mist-nets. For Rawalpindi in the winter season, the Zea mays was one of the predominant food item (30.6%) for males, and other ranked major food contents were (26.7%, 22.4% and 20.2%), and fairly similar feeding proportions were also recorded for the females (50.4%, 33.3%, 36.4% and 23.9%) for Carthamus oxyacantha, Hordeum vulgare, Triticum aestivum and Zea mays respectively. Evidently, no significant deviations in the existing food crops for the three sites for the feral pigeon were detected, which strongly suggested that the, modes of feeding habits among the sustainable roosts and nests which were closely located to food crops, exerted negligible impacts during intermittent pigeon foraging movements in the diurnal conditions.

Resumo O presente artigo fornece informações sobre os regimes de alimentação dos dois sexos do pombo-da-rocha-azul (Columba livia Linn.) nos habitats amostrados dos três distritos, a saber: Rawalpindi, Faisalabad e Bahawalpur, da província de Punjab, Paquistão. Este pombo-doméstico, considerado espécie onipresente, habita tanto as pastagens quanto os ambientes agrupados para estabelecer seus poleiros e ninhos. O estudo explorou proporções comparáveis ​​de alimentação de três grandes habitats dos pombos que foram capturados com redes de neblina de tamanho médio. Para Rawalpindi no inverno, Zea mays foi um dos itens alimentares predominantes (30,6%) para os machos, e outros alimentos classificados como principais foram (26,7%; 22,4% e 20,2%), e proporções bastante semelhantes foram registradas para as fêmeas (50,4%, 33,3%, 36,4% e 23,9%) para Carthamus oxyacantha, Hordeum vulgare, Triticum aestivum e Zea mays, respectivamente. Evidentemente, não foram detectados desvios significativos nas culturas alimentares existentes nos três locais para o pombo-doméstico, sugerindo fortemente que os modos de alimentação entre os poleiros e ninhos sustentáveis, que estavam estreitamente localizados em culturas alimentares, exerceram impactos não significativos durante os períodos intermitentes dos movimentos de forrageamento dos pombos-domésticos nas condições diurnas.

Assessment of heavy metals in faecal pellets of blue rock pigeon from rural and industrial environment in India.

The study was conducted to monitor concentration of six toxic metals in faecal pellets of blue rock pigeon from six industrial areas of Jaipur, i.e. Jhotwara, Malviya, Mansarover, Sitapura, Vishwakarma industrial areas and Sanganer industries, by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. At the same time, trace metals were also analysed for a reference area so that a comparative impact of the metal pollution from the industries could be figured out. From the data obtained, the highest Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn concentrations were found in the faecal pellets from Sitapura industrial area (1.12 ± 0.60 µg/g; 128.9 ± 11.10 µg/g; 17 ± 2.87 µg/g; 79.6 ± 42.69 µg/g; 2250 ± 1390.16 µg/g) and the highest Cr (18.6 ± 3.65 µg/g) from Jhotwara industrial area. However, industrial environment has high deposition of studied trace metals (except Ni for Sanganer industries) as compared with reference area. The concentration of Cd was below the detectable level in faecal pellets from reference area. The trend of trace metals from Malviya, Sitapura, Jhotwara and reference areas was noticed as Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr > Ni > Cd and almost same for Sanganer industries and Mansarover industrial area as Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd. The excretion of heavy metals in fa1ecal pellets from Vishwakarma industrial area was noticed as Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd. Further levels of metals were varied significantly among different industrial areas, P ≤ 0.05, as well as between industrial areas and reference area. The observed high concentration of different heavy metals in faecal pellets of bird species shows their exposure to metal contamination which is warning to spiked environmental pollution.

Global DNA methylation changes in rock pigeon (Columba livia) as a sentinel species due to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure in Tehran (Iran) as a megacity.

Global DNA methylation, as an epigenetic modifications, can be a promising genomic marker for monitoring the contaminants and predicting their adverse health effects. The study aims to assess the effects of 16 PAH concentration on the altered DNA methylation levels in the kidney and liver of rock pigeon (Columba livia), as a sentinel species, from Tehran megacity as well as 40 days benzo(a)pyrene in vitro exposure: (0.1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 mg kg-1 bw). Data indicated that the total LMW-PAH (low molecular weight PAHs) group (120.22, 121.34, 103.69, and 128.79 ng g-1 dw in liver, kidney, skin, and muscle, respectively) in the Tehran samples have higher levels than the other PAHs groups. In addition, the DNA methylation level had negative relation with the total amount of PAHs in liver and kidney. A comparatively higher global DNA hypomethylation (by 8.65% in liver and 3.76% in kidney) was observed in birds exposed to B(a)P. Our results lead us to suggest that DNA hypomethylation in liver and kidney associated with the B(a)P may be useful biomarker discovery (more than the amount of PAH concentration in different tissues of C. livia) in urban areas. In conclusion, based on the overall results assessed, DNA methylation changes in pigeon may show a new target pathway for evaluation of environmental health.

Host defense triggers rapid adaptive radiation in experimentally evolving parasites.

Adaptive radiation occurs when the members of a single lineage evolve different adaptive forms in response to selection imposed by competitors or predators. Iconic examples include Darwin's finches, Caribbean anoles, and Hawaiian silverswords, all of which live on islands. Although adaptive radiation is thought to be an important generator of biodiversity, most studies concern groups that have already diversified. Here, we take the opposite approach. We experimentally triggered diversification in the descendants of a single population of host-specific parasites confined to different host "islands." We show rapid adaptive divergence of experimentally evolving feather lice in response to preening, which is a bird's main defense against ectoparasites. We demonstrate that host defense exerts strong phenotypic selection for crypsis in lice transferred to different colored rock pigeons (Columba livia). During four years of experimental evolution (∼60 generations), the lice evolved heritable differences in color. Strikingly, the observed color differences spanned the range of phenotypes found among congeneric lice adapted to other species of birds. To our knowledge, this is the first real-time demonstration that microevolution is fast enough to simulate millions of years of macroevolutionary change. Our results further indicate that host-mediated selection triggers rapid divergence in the adaptive radiation of parasites, which are among the most diverse organisms on Earth.

Shedding of clade 2.3.4.4 H5N8 and H5N2 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses in peridomestic wild birds in the U.S.

European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and rock pigeons (Columba livia) are all wild birds commonly found in large numbers in and around human dwellings and domestic livestock operations. This study evaluated the susceptibility of these species to three strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HP AIV) clade 2.3.4.4 isolated in the U.S.. Experimental infection of European starlings and rock pigeons did not result in any overt signs attributable to AIV infection and no virus shedding was detected from the oral and cloacal routes. House sparrows shed by the oral route and exhibited limited mortality. Individuals from all three species seroconverted following infection. These data suggest that none of these birds are a likely potential bridge host for future HP AIV outbreaks but that their seroconversion may be a useful surveillance tool for detection of circulating H5 HP AIV.

Prenatal Transfer of Gut Bacteria in Rock Pigeon.

Vertebrates evolved in concert with bacteria and have developed essential mutualistic relationships. Gut bacteria are vital for the postnatal development of most organs and the immune and metabolic systems and may likewise play a role during prenatal development. Prenatal transfer of gut bacteria is shown in four mammalian species, including humans. For the 92% of the vertebrates that are oviparous, prenatal transfer is debated, but it has been demonstrated in domestic chicken. We hypothesize that also non-domestic birds can prenatally transmit gut bacteria. We investigated this in medium-sized Rock pigeon (Columba livia), ensuring neonates producing fair-sized first faeces. The first faeces of 21 neonate rock pigeons hatched in an incubator, contained a microbiome (bacterial community) the composition of which resembled the cloacal microbiome of females sampled from the same population (N = 5) as indicated by multiple shared phyla, orders, families, and genera. Neonates and females shared 16.1% of the total number of OTUs present (2881), and neonates shared 45.5% of their core microbiome with females. In contrast, the five females shared only 0.3% of the 1030 female OTUs present. These findings suggest that prenatal gut bacterial transfer may occur in birds. Our results support the hypothesis that gut bacteria may be important for prenatal development and present a heritability pathway of gut bacteria in vertebrates.

Sarcocystis calchasi Outbreak in Feral Rock Pigeons ( Columba livia) in California.

Twenty-two feral rock pigeons ( Columba livia) from 10 counties in California with ataxia, torticollis, and difficulty standing and flying were admitted to rehabilitation centers in late winter and spring of 2017 and died or were euthanized. Common necropsy findings included thin body condition, generalized deep red discoloration of organs, and hemorrhagic subcutaneous neck tissues. Meningoencephalitis was observed microscopically in 16 pigeons, and 3 also had protozoal schizonts in the brain. The most consistently affected regions of the brain were cerebellum and brainstem. Skeletal muscles, and less frequently the heart, contained large intrasarcoplasmic bradyzoites typically without inflammation. Fifteen of the 22 birds tested positive using pan- Sarcocystis polymerase chain reaction. The sequence of the amplicon was most closely related to S. calchasi, and the 8 subtyped sequences had 100% homology with S. calchasi. This investigation demonstrated the transcontinental and North American spread of S. calchasi causing a disease outbreak in free-ranging rock pigeons, thus warranting increased surveillance in susceptible native columbids.

Dose-related impacts of imidacloprid oral intoxication on brain and liver of rock pigeon (Columba livia domestica), residues analysis in different organs.

Available data regarding Imidacloprid (IMI) insecticide hazards to birds are still being scare. Our study aimed to investigate toxic impacts of IMI oral gavage by different dose levels on the brain and liver of Rock pigeon (Columba livia domestica). Forty mature male birds were divided equally into four groups. A control group (C) was orally dosed Mazola corn oil and other three groups; the low dose (LD), the medium dose (MD), and the high dose (HD) groups were orally dosed IMI in Mazola corn oil by three dose levels corresponding to 1/15th, 1/10th, 1/5th IMI oral LD50 respectively. IMI exposure induced a significant decrease in serum levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity. On the other hand; malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were elevated. The levels of serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and A/G ratio showed a non-significant changes in all IMI dosed groups except levels of total protein in the HD IMI dosed group showed a significant decrease compared to the C group. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), uric acid, plasma tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and plasma acetylcholinesterase (AChEs) enzyme activities showed a significant dose related increase in all IMI exposed groups compared to the C group; except the levels of ALT, LDH, and uric acid showed a non significant decrease in the LD IMI dosed group only. Residues of IMI were detected in the pectoral muscles, liver, brain, and kidney of all dosed rock pigeon. Moreover; pectoral muscles were the highest tissue for IMI residues detection. This is the first study reports accumulation of IMI in tissues other than crop, liver, and kidney of rock pigeon including brain and muscles. Moreover, the examined brain and liver tissues of all IMI dosed groups showed dosed related alterations in their structural and ultra-structural morphology. It is concluded that IMI oral administration to pigeon induced oxidative stress and detrimental effects in brain and liver of exposed pigeons. Additionally; IMI bio-accumulated in different organs being muscles is the highest tissues for IMI residues, thus monitoring of IMI residues in food is very essential.

Antimicrobial susceptibility and diarrheagenic diagnosis of Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica isolated from feral pigeons (Columba livia) captured in Fortaleza, Brazil / Isolamento, sensibilidade antimicrobiana e diagnóstico de cepas diarreiogênicas de Escherichia coli e Salmonella enterica isoladas de pombos urbanos (Columba livia) capturados em Fortaleza, Brasil

This study aimed to isolate Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica from captured feral pigeons in Fortaleza, Brazil, and, in addition to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles and diagnose diarrheagenic E. coli strains. Pigeons were captured in four public locations in Fortaleza with three techniques. Individual cloacal swab samples were collected and submitted to bacterial isolation, biochemical identification and antimicrobial susceptibility test. Disk diffusion technique was used with twelve antibiotics. E. coli strains were submitted to DNA extraction followed by PCR to diagnose five diarrheagenic pathotypes. A total of 124 birds were captured. One bird was positive for Salmonella enterica (0.81%) and 121 (97.58%) were positive for E. coli. Among these, 110 isolates were submitted to antimicrobial susceptibility test and 28.18% (31/110) presented resistance to at least one antibiotic. Resistance to azithromycin was the most frequent (21.82%), followed by tetracycline (10.91%) and sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim (8.9%). Multidrug resistance, calculated as a resistance to at least 3 antimicrobial classes, was identified in 3.64% (4/110) of strains. The maximum number of antimicrobial classes to which one strain was resistant was seven. Results demonstrated nine different resistance profiles and the most frequent was tetracycline and sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim (4 strains), followed by chloramphenicol, azithromycin, tetracycline and sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim (3 strains). Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid and tobramycin presented lowest levels of antimicrobial resistance, to which none of the tested strains were resistant. A single strain was positive for the eltB gene, which is a diagnostic tool to identify the Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) pathotype. None of the other investigated genes (stx1, stx2, estA, eaeA, ipaH, aatA and aaiC) were identified. The single isolate of S. enterica was a rough strain of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, but serotype identification was not possible. However, this isolate presented resistance to amoxicillin, amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, tetracycline and sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim. Therefore, captured feral pigeons of Fortaleza presented a low prevalence of S. enterica and diarrheagenic E. coli. Considering the investigated pathogens, our results suggest a good health status and a low public health risk. However, important antimicrobial resistance profiles were identified.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi isolar cepas de Escherichia coli e Salmonella enterica de pombos urbanos capturados em Fortaleza, Brasil, e avaliar os perfis de resistência antimicrobiana dos isolados, bem como diagnosticar patotipos diarreiogênicos de E. coli. Pombos foram capturados em quatro locais públicos de Fortaleza utilizando três técnicas. Amostras individuais de suabes cloacais foram coletadas e submetidas a isolamento bacteriano, seguido de identificação bioquímica e teste de susceptibilidade a antimicrobianos. A técnica de disco difusão foi utilizada para avaliar resistência antimicrobiana a doze antibióticos. Cepas de E. coli foram submetidas à extração de DNA seguido de PCR para o diagnóstico de cinco patotipos diarreiogênicos. Um total de 124 aves foram capturadas, a partir das quais em uma houve isolamento de Salmonella enterica (0,81%) e em 121 (97,58%) houve isolamento de E. coli. Destas, 110 isolados foram submetidos a teste de suscetibilidade a antimicrobianos e 28,18% (31/110) apresentaram resistência a pelo menos um antibiótico. Resistência a azitromicina foi a mais frequente (21,82%), seguida por tetraciclina (10,91%) e sulfametoxazol com trimetoprim (8,9%). Resistência a múltiplas drogas foi identificada em 3,64% (4/110) dos isolados e o número máximo de antibióticos aos quais uma única cepa foi resistente foi sete. Resultados demonstraram nove diferentes perfis de resistência e o mais frequente foi tetraciclina e sulfametoxazol com trimetoprim (4 cepas), seguido por cloranfenicol, azitromicina, tetraciclina e sulfametoxazol com trimetoprim (3 cepas). Amoxicilina com ácido clavulânico e tobramicina foram os antibióticos com menor resistência antimicrobiana, aos quais nenhuma cepa apresentou resistência. Uma única cepa foi positiva para o gene eltB que é usado para diagnóstico do patotipo E. coli enterotoxigênica (ETEC), enquanto que os demais genes investigados (stx1, stx2, estA, eaeA, ipaH, aatA e aaiC) não foram identificados. A única cepa de S. enterica isolada foi identificada como uma cepa rugosa de Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica e, portanto, a identificação do sorotipo não foi possível. Entretanto, este isolado apresentou resistência a amoxicilina, amoxicilina com ácido clavulânico, tetraciclina e sulfametoxazol com trimetoprim. Portanto, pombos urbanos capturados em Fortaleza apresentaram baixa prevalência de cepas de S. enterica e E. coli diarreiogênicas. Considerando os patógenos investigados, os resultados encontrados sugerem um bom status sanitário destas aves e um baixo risco à saúde pública. Entretanto, importantes perfis de resistência antimicrobiana foram identificados.(AU)