Bustard pediatric diseases: A review of clinical and pathologic findings

The clinical and pathologic findings of pediatric conditions that developed in four species of bustards (Eupodotis ruficrista, Ardeotis kori, Chlamydotis undulata, and Eupodotis senegalensis) during the first 180 days after hatching are reviewed. The study surveyed 137 chicks reared at the National Avian Research Center in the United Arab Emirates between 1993 and 1995. The mortality rate of chicks decreased from 71 to 25% between 1993 and 1995. This decrease was associated with modifications to the management of the chicks and the rearing environment. Musculoskeletal conditions were the most important cause of morbidity over the first 30 days (50%) and, in total, over 180 days (49%). Bacterial diseases were the most important cause of death over the first 30 days (62%) and, in total, over 180 days (40%). Eighty-two percent of the bacterial isolates from clinical and postmortem cases were gram-negative bacteria. Mechanical abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract were an important cause of death (16%) and morbidity (4%), in total, over 180 days. Forty-five percent and 52% of all chick morbidity and mortality, respectively, occurred within the first 30 days after hatching. Aggressive care of bustards during the first 30 days after hatching is important. Health recommendations for bustard chicks are summarized.