Avian Biology

Volume II

1st Edition - December 28, 1972
Editors: Donald S. Farner, James R. King
Language: English
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 1 - 4 8 3 2 - 6 9 4 2 - 9

Avian Biology, Volume II is a collection of papers that deals with the biology of birds such as their integumentary and respiratory systems. One paper describes the integument of… Read more

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Avian Biology, Volume II is a collection of papers that deals with the biology of birds such as their integumentary and respiratory systems. One paper describes the integument of birds that includes the skin, feathers, pterylosis, skin muscles, and other integumentary derivatives such as beaks, comb, claws, and spurs. The book explains the process of molting and the different generations of feathers; such molting is dependent on the wear and tear of the plumage, as well as hormonal changes. One author compares the blood vascular system of birds and mammals, and then gives a detailed description of avian hematology. Other papers deal with the respiratory functions, digestive system, and the nutritional needs of birds. Of interest is one author's description of the production of nutritive fluids, holocrine, which is secreted for the young. This secreted fluid contains about 23 percent protein, 10 percent fat, and no sugar. Unlike mammalian milk, it also contains cells. Another paper examines the intermediary metabolism of birds and the climatic effects on metabolism. This book is suitable for bird enthusiasts, zoologists, and avian biologists.

List of Contributors

Preface

Note on Taxonomy

Contents of Other Volumes

Obituary

Chapter I. The Integument of Birds

I. Skin

II. Feathers

III. Pterylosis

IV. Muscles of the Skin

V. Integumentary Derivatives Other Than Feathers

References

Chapter 2. Patterns of Molting

I. Introduction

II. Definitions

III. Homology

IV. Social Factors

V. Describing Molts and Feather Generations

VI. Concluding Remarks

References

Chapter 3. Mechanisms and Control of Molt

I. Introduction

II. Mechanisms of the Pattern of Molt

III. Molting and Breeding Schedules

IV. Hormonal Control of Feather Loss and Replacement

V. Direct Effects of the Environment on Molt

VI. Energetics and Molt

VII. Summary

References

Chapter 4. The Blood Vascular System of Birds

I. Introduction

II. Avian Hematology

III. Morphology of the Blood Vascular System

IV. The Electrophysiology of the Heart

V. General Hemodynamics

VI. Regulation of the Cardiovascular System

VII. Cardiovascular Adjustments to (Habitual) Diving and Alterations in Ambient Gas Composition

VIII. Cardiovascular Performances During Flight

IX. The Cardiovascular System and Gas Exchange

X. The Role of the Cardiovascular System in Excretion and Osmoregulation

XI. The Role of Peripheral Circulation in Temperature Regulation

References

Chapter 5. Respiratory Function in Birds

I. Introduction

II. Anatomy

III. Respiration of Resting Birds

IV. Respiration of Heat-Stressed Birds

V. Respiration of Flying Birds

VI. Respiration During Specialized Activities

References

Chapter 6. Digestion and the Digestive System

I. Introduction

II. The Buccal Cavity, Buccal Glands, and Pharynx

III. The Esophagus and Crop

IV. The Gastric Apparatus

V. The Intestine

VI. The Liver

VII. The Pancreas

References

Chapter 7. The Nutrition of Birds

I. Introduction

II. Requirements Represented by Nutrient Expenditures

III. Requirements Represented by Syntheses and Storages of Nutrients

IV. The Net Nutritive Value of Feeds

V. Production of Nutritive Fluids for the Young

References

Chapter 8. The Intermediary Metabolism of Birds

I. General Considerations

II. Tissue Metabolism

III. Influence of Diet

IV. Endocrine Control of Metabolism

V. Influence of Reproductive (Laying) Cycle

VI. Climatic Effects on Metabolism

VII. Influence of Migration on Metabolism

VIII. General Summary and Conclusions

References

Chapter 9. Osmoregulation and Excretion in Birds

I. Introduction

II. The Avian Kidney

III. Postrenal Modification of the Urine —Role of the Cloaca and Intestine

IV. The Avian Salt Gland

References

Author Index

Index to Bird Names

Subject Index