Metabolic bone disease in wild collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto)
- G. O. Cousquer, BSc, BVM&S, CertZooMed, MRCVS1,
- E. J. Dankoski, BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS2 and
- J. C. Patterson-Kane, BVSc, PhD, DACVP, MRCVS2
- 1 RSPCA Wildlife Hospital, West Hatch, Taunton TA3 5RT
- 2 Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
- Mr Cousquer's present address is Duchy Veterinary Hospital, 53 Henver Road, Newquay, Cornwall TR7 3DQ
- Dr Patterson-Kane's present address is School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
Abstract
The records of 666 casualty collared doves examined at a wildlife hospital in south-west England over a period of five years were reviewed. Signs of metabolic bone disease were recorded in 51·2 per cent of the juvenile birds but in only 9·6 per cent of the adults. The incidence of the condition was highest between December and February and decreased almost to zero between June and August. Histological lesions in 11 of the juvenile doves were consistent with vitamin D deficiency, possibly as a result of inadequate exposure to uvb light during the short winter days.
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