Comparative Avian Nutrition

Their natural beauty, exceptional variety and unique biology make birds (aves) one of the most interesting groups of animals. They are also of great importance to humans as food and as important experimental subjects that have catalysed significant advances in many areas of biological research. Central to our ability to maintain and develop these resources is a thorough understanding of avian nutrition. This book presents all aspects of our current knowledge, drawn from such diverse disciplines as physiologic ecology, poultry production, zoo biology and biomedical science. The physical and biochemical processes of digestion, the metabolic functions of nutrients and the diversity of evolutionary adaptations required to accommodate very different foodstuffs are examined in depth. Emphasis is places on the quantitative nature of nutrition and the practical consequences for the dietary requirements of captive and wild avian populations throughout their life cycle. This book should be key reading for advanced students of animal nutrition and poultry and avian science and for research ornithologists. It will also be useful for practising nutritionists working with farmed, pet, zoo or wild birds, and as a purchase for libraries of animal science, veterinary medicine and ornithology.