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Fecal Glucocorticoid Analysis: Non-invasive Adrenal Monitoring in Equids

Fecal Glucocorticoid Analysis: Non-invasive Adrenal Monitoring in Equids

Published on: April 25, 2016

Exogenous and endogenous corticosterone alter feather quality.

David W DesRochers¹, J Michael Reed, Jessica Awerman

¹Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA.

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part A, Molecular & Integrative Physiology

|September 23, 2008

Summary

Glucocorticoids, like corticosterone, can impact feather quality during regrowth. High levels may lead to lighter, weaker feathers with altered microstructure in European starlings.

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Area of Science:

Avian biology
Endocrinology
Physiological ecology

Background:

Feather replacement is crucial for avian survival and thermoregulation.
Glucocorticoids are key stress hormones that can influence physiological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the effects of exogenous and endogenous glucocorticoids on feather regrowth and quality in European starlings.
To determine if corticosterone impacts feather microstructure, strength, and susceptibility to degradation.

Main Methods:

European starlings underwent flight feather removal (approx. 56%).
Birds received exogenous corticosterone implants or were subjected to psychological/physical stressors to elevate endogenous corticosterone.
Feather length, vane area, microstructure (inter-barb distance), strength, and bacterial degradation were analyzed.

Main Results:

Exogenous corticosterone led to lighter rectrices, decreased inter-barb distance, and reduced barbicel hooking strength.
Endogenous corticosterone (via food restriction and stress) resulted in greater inter-barb distances and weaker feathers.
Neither exogenous nor endogenous corticosterone affected feather regrowth rate or bacterial degradation.

Conclusions:

Both exogenous and endogenous corticosterone can negatively impact feather quality during regrowth.
High circulating corticosterone levels may produce lighter, weaker feathers with altered microstructural properties in European starlings.
These changes could have implications for feather function and bird survival.