Creation and validation of a novel body condition scoring method for the magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) in the zoo setting

Zoo Biology
Julie Clements, Jessica N Sanchez

Abstract

This research aims to validate a novel, visual body scoring system created for the Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) suitable for the zoo practitioner. Magellanics go through marked seasonal fluctuations in body mass gains and losses. A standardized multi-variable visual body condition guide may provide a more sensitive and objective assessment tool compared to the previously used single variable method. Accurate body condition scores paired with seasonal weight variation measurements give veterinary and keeper staff a clearer understanding of an individual's nutritional status. San Francisco Zoo staff previously used a nine-point body condition scale based on the classic bird standard of a single point of keel palpation with the bird restrained in hand, with no standard measure of reference assigned to each scoring category. We created a novel, visual body condition scoring system that does not require restraint to assesses subcutaneous fat and muscle at seven body landmarks using illustrations and descriptive terms. The scores range from one, the least robust or under-conditioned, to five, the most robust, or over-conditioned. The ratio of body weight to wing length was used as a "gold standard" index of body condi...Continue Reading

References

Aug 6, 1999·Journal of Theoretical Biology·C DawsonP Forshaw
Sep 8, 2000·Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·W J Burkholder
Jul 3, 2004·The Veterinary Quarterly·F J Bavelaar, A C Beynen
Aug 21, 2012·Physiological and Biochemical Zoology : PBZ·Vincent A ViblancJean-Patrice Robin

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Citations

Jun 21, 2018·Parasitology·Ralph Eric Thijl VanstreelsPierre A Pistorius

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