Toucan hand feeding and nestling growth.
A retrospective analysis of hand-feeding records and growth data from 3 facilities was performed to determine the growth pattern for 8 toucan species raised in captivity. General philosophies of breeding and rearing were similar but approaches to hand-feeding varied. General hand-feeding and chick management records from hatch to fledging were reviewed for 2 of the 3 facilities. Effective hand-feeding formulas were commercially available and minimally modified. Growth curves were developed. Curves approximated typical expected patterns of nestling growth with no loss of weight at fledging. This study provides a basis for hand-feeding protocols and growth curves to assess development.
SeaWorld San Diego, 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, CA 92109, USA. Judy.St.leger@seaworld.com
Judy
J
St Leger
Martin
M
Vince
Jerry
J
Jennings
Erin
E
McKerney
Erika
E
Nilson
D000822:Animal Husbandry / Q000379:methods*; D000824:Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D000836:Animals, Zoo; D001717:Birds / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000502:physiology; D001835:Body Weight / Q000502:physiology; D001947:Breeding; D005260:Female; D057238:Growth Charts; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies