Semen collection and spermatozoa characteristics in budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)

Abstract

Semen samples were obtained from budgerigars by applying gentle pressure to both sides of the cloaca. The semen appeared to be stored in the seminal glomera, two structures on either side of the proctodeum. These structures have been described before in Passeriformes. The spermatozoon in budgerigars is similar to the spermatozoon of the domestic fowl, but differs from the spermatozoon of Passeriformes.