DESCRIBE IN DETAIL THE PHYSIOLOGICAL CASCADE OF EVENTS THAT OCCUR IN THE PRODUCTION AND LAYING OF AN AVIAN EGG
1. Describe in detail the physiological cascade of events that occur in the production and
laying of an avian egg. Your answer should include a discussion of environmental and
other factors that trigger reproductive drive, the endocrine and other events that result
in the development of a follicle, ovulation, egg formation and oviposition. Where
appropriate a detailed description of the female reproductive tract, including
microscopic anatomy, should be used to demonstrate these events. (30 marks)
2. Answer both parts of this question:
a) Discuss the principles of analgesia as they apply to the initial management and
then surgical repair of a fractured tibiotarsus in a large parrot. Your answer
should include details of drugs you would use, including dose rates, route of
administration and mode of action. (15 marks)
b) Describe in detail a best practice anaesthetic protocol for an attempted surgical
repair of a displaced fractured left coracoid bone that rests alongside the trachea
in a large parrot. Details of any pre and post-anaesthetic monitoring and or
treatments should also be explained. (15 marks)
3. Lead poisoning remains a common problem in wildlife, backyard and companion
birds. Describe the short and long term effects of lead on a bird’s physiology, relating
these effects to the clinical signs seen on presentation. Describe the treatment of a
parrot affected with lead poisoning, including supportive care and a description of the
drugs that can be used, their dose rate, their mode of action, and the duration of
treatment. (30 marks)
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Avian Medicine Paper 1 Page 3 of 3
© 2016 The Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists ABN 00 50 000894 208
4. Answer all parts of this question:
a) Discuss the value of triglycerides and cholesterol in an avian biochemistry panel.
(10 marks)
b) Explain the options and constraints that are currently available for the laboratory
diagnosis of impaired or reduced hepatocellular function in avian patients.
(10 marks)
c) Outline an approach for assessing the cellular components of peripheral blood
smears in birds. (10 marks)
5. Describe the anatomy of the pectoral girdle in a flighted bird, including skeletal
structures, muscles and tendons, major blood vessels and nerves. (30 marks)
6. Use examples to explain the concept of a ‘closed aviary’, relating how biosecurity
principles may affect the design, structure and on-going management of a modern
avicultural breeding centre. (30 marks)