Linda's Links

Autumn 2002

Hello everyone,
This issue I will be reviewing some interesting websites that I have found, about the Avian Respiratory System.

My first link can be found at:

http://www.biology.eku.edu/RITCHISO/birdrespiration.html

This is from Gary Ritchison, resident ornithologist
Department of Biological Sciences
Eastern Kentucky University
This is a very detailed description, plus diagrams, of a bird's respiratory
system, along with some very useful links. You might call it a mini
ornithology lesson.

My second link can be found at:

http://www.birdsnways.com/wisdom/ww43eiv.htm

This is the winged wisdomPet Bird Magazine, Ezine
THE AVIAN RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
by Linda Pesek DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Avian)
Birds possess a very unique and efficient respiratory system. They lack a diaphragm, have nonexpandable lungs and a system of air sacs which extend into many of their bones. Vocalization is by means of a syrinx, not a larynx as in mammals.

This column will describe the structure of the avian respiratory system. The following article will cover common problems and diseases and why birds are so sensitive to chemicals.

My third link can be found at:

http://www.birdsnways.com/wisdom/ww44eiv.htm
This is the winged wisdomPet Bird Magazine, Ezine
AVIAN RESPIRATORY DISORDERS PART I
by Linda Pesek DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Avian)
When a distressed bird is taken to an avian veterinarian, respiratory disease is often found to be the cause. Frequent sneezing, nasal discharge, periocular swelling, coughing, wheezing, and a voice change may be evident. Dyspnea, or labored breathing, may be seen at rest or after the bird flies a short distance. "Tail bobbing" or a rhythmic jerking movement of the tail may also be observed.

My fourth link can be found at:

http://home1.gte.net/impekabl/Birdflight.html

Is There More to Bird Flight than Meets the Eye?
©Copywrite January 2002 Bill Arbon, Author
Wings and flight are at the very heart and soul of what is a bird, are they not? Physiology and function clearly indicate that flying birds are dependent on wings for mobility and is necessary for flying birds' daily lives. A more interesting benefit of birds' flying may have a more fundamental reason for bird flight.

My last link can be found at:

http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/multimedia/birdlungs/
San Diego State University
Avian Respiratory Dynamics Animation
This animation requires the Shockwave plugin

Well, that's all for now. I hope you found the links interesting, and will
join me again, next issue, for more of "Linda's Links."