Journal of Field Ornithology (Mar 2023)
Refinements in adipose tissue biopsy collection in shorebirds: effect on pain, wound healing, and mass gain
Abstract
Non-lethal methods to sample adipose tissues from fat depots in small birds are highly valuable as a time integrated sample matrix for ecotoxicology and ecophysiology research. However, for investigators to have confidence to use adipose tissue biopsy methods, welfare concerns remain regarding minimizing pain and ensuring there are no lasting effects on health and survival, particularly for small shorebird species actively undergoing refueling for seasonal migration. We tested refinements in adipose tissue biopsies in a captive Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) population using either injectable or topical analgesics for pain control and monitored effects on mass, fat, and wound healing time over 21 days to critically evaluate the technique. Injectable analgesics provided rapid and superior short-term pain control compared to topical treatments, and there were no lasting effects of the analgesic or biopsy treatment on healing time, mass, or fat gain over the experiment. Average time for complete healing was 17 ± 3.5 days and all Killdeer continued to gain body mass and fat post procedure. The results suggest that adipose biopsies, with some recommended refinements, should be safe and effective and are not anticipated to cause significant impacts on fueling in migratory shorebirds.
