Endocrine disruption - We are studying how environmental estrogens
(estrogenic pesticides and industrial and household chemicals and
phytoestrogens) influence reproductive performance of songbirds. We have
shown that post-hatch oral exposure to estradiol masculinizes female brain
and impairs reproduction in both sexes in sex-specific ways. We have also
shown that early oviduct growth in female zebra finch can be used to measure
exposure to estrogens and thus to predict impairments in adult reproductive
performance.
Photoperiodic regulation of reproduction - We are studying
photorefractoriness in turkey breeder hens, a neurological condition that
limits turkey egg production to approximately 100 eggs per hen per year. The
neural basis of photorefractoriness is very poorly understood. We are using
neuronanatomic techniques to determine the identity of brain regions and
specific brain cells involved in the regulation of photorefractoriness and
how these cells may communicate with other neuropeptide systems known to be
involved in transducing long-day sexual stimulation into gonadal growth.
Photorefractoriness is the single greatest limiting factor in the production
of turkey eggs.
Captive welfare of parrots - Feather self-plucking is a pervasive
behavioral vice in captive companion parrots; feather-related problems
comprise over 50% of avian veterinary practices. We are studying how methods
of rearing produce different behavioral and physiological outcomes in chicks
and adults.
