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Epileptiform seizures in captive African vultures
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|April 1, 1981
Summary
African vultures in captivity experienced severe epileptiform seizures, with high mortality rates observed across multiple species. Diagnostic tests have not yet identified the underlying cause of these neurological episodes in captive vultures.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Avian Medicine
- Wildlife Health
Background:
- Captive African vultures in multiple locations exhibited neurological symptoms.
- Seizures were observed in several vulture species, including griffon vultures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of epileptiform seizures in captive African vultures.
- To analyze diagnostic findings in affected birds.
Main Methods:
- Observation of clinical signs in captive vultures.
- Performance of diagnostic tests including serum calcium and blood glucose level measurements.
- Histological examination of brain tissues.
Main Results:
- High mortality rates were recorded in griffon vultures (Gyps africanus and G. coprotheres) following seizures.
- Other species, including Lappetfaced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotus) and Whiteheaded Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis), also experienced seizures with varied outcomes.
- Standard diagnostic tests and brain examinations did not reveal the etiology of the seizures.
Conclusions:
- The cause of epileptiform seizures in these captive African vultures remains undetermined.
- Further research is needed to identify the specific etiological agent or condition responsible for the observed neurological disease.