Differences in bone mineral content and density between male and female budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) during the non-reproductive season.
It is known that female birds increase medullary mineral stores in long bones shortly before egg laying. Here, we present results from two groups of budgerigars, in both of which females had significantly higher bone mineral contents and densities, as measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography of the tibiotarsus, during a reproductively dormant period. The results could indicate that female birds can accumulate mineral stores outside of the breeding season.
Zulauf-Fischer
I
I
Division of Zoo Animals and Exotic Pets, Small Animal Department, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland. fischer@kleintierklinikrigiplatz.ch
Liesegang
A
A
Haessig
M
M
Clauss
M
M
Hatt
J-M
JM
D000818:Animals; D015519:Bone Density / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D046408:Melopsittacus / Q000502:physiology*; D012621:Seasons; D012737:Sex Factors