Determining correlates of gentoo penguin health using captive populations

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Karan, Jessica Lynn
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As long-lived birds sensitive to environmental changes, penguins are often used as marine sentinels and many species are regularly monitored. Studies on gentoo penguins, <i>Pygoscelis papua</i>, have revealed significant differences in the health of several Antarctic colonies, but the source(s) of these differences remains unknown. Sampling limitations and data deficiencies have made it difficult to establish correlations with gentoo health measurements in the wild. Captive populations therefore provide an invaluable tool for discovering more about animal biology, as they are easily accessible and detailed long-term records are maintained for each individual and its habitat. The aim of this study was to use captive populations to determine significant correlates of gentoo penguin corticosterone (CORT) levels and ornamental coloration, each of which provides an index of condition. These parameters were measured non-invasively through analyses of hormones in molted feathers, and photos of carotenoid-based beak spots. Partnering with zoos and aquariums across the United States has provided a wide range of potential correlates to consider, and significant differences in both CORT and beak coloration have been observed between institutions. Differences in CORT correlate with the number of institutional visitors, while differences in beak coloration are most closely correlated with diet and subspecies. Results from this study will give institutions a better opportunity to understand their animals, and can contribute to overall penguin husbandry practices and welfare. Ultimately, findings can be used to better inform research and conservation decisions for wild gentoo populations as well.
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