Comparison of some haematological parameters between three bird species from the Columbidae family - short communication

Abstract

Investigations into some haematological values in birds from three Columbidae species e.g. pigeons, (Columba livia domestica), collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) and African collared doves, (Streptopelia roseogrisea) have been performed. In all three species, high haemoglobin concentrations, and respectively high red blood cell counts were observed. In S. decaocto the red blood cell count was extremely high, corresponding to the high haemoglobin levels. RBC values in both Streptopelia species were significantly higher than in domestic pigeons. Higher white blood cell counts were present in freely living collared doves versus both species living in captivity. The heterophils/lymphocytes ratio in African collared doves was the highest − 1.05, followed by the ratios of collared doves and domestic pigeons. Key words: white blood cells, red blood cells, pigeon, dove, haematology