External biometric characterization, body assessment, and histological characterization of the gastrointestinal tract in roadside hawks (Rupornis magnirostris) taken by CETAS/IBAMA, in Paraíba, Brazil

• Main Authors: Millena de Oliveira Firmino, Raul Antunes Silva Siqueira, Arthur Cássio de Lima Luna, Tarsila Almeida Cavalcante, Ricardo Romão Guerra
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina 2014-03-01
• Series: Biotemas
• Subjects: Bird of prey; Conservation; Morphology
• Online Access: https://periodicos.ufsc.br/index.php/biotemas/article/view/2175-7925.2014v27n1p101
• ISSN: 0103-1643; 2175-7925

This study aimed to analyze measures of the external biometry and the digestive system and, also, the body and feather conditions of roadside hawks taken by CETAS/IBAMA in Paraíba, Brazil, and describe the histology of viscera in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), focusing on the provision of means for further studies in the area of animal nutrition and taxonomic classification, as well as for management and conservation systems. The specimens were analyzed, measured, and biological samples were collected to undergo histological procedures. We found out that there is a relation between body conditions and feather loss, demonstrating that the GIT morphology is similar to that of most birds already described, including other Accipitridae species. The results provide means for further studies involving nutritional, conservationist, clinical, and surgical management for this species.