Time budget, foraging activities, diet and occurrence of aspergillosis in captive yellowheads (Mohoua ochrocephala)

Abstract

Instantaneous and focal animal samplingwere used to describe various activities and foraging methods of eight captive yellowheads. Theyspent, on average, 74% of their time foraging, and most often foraged on the ground. Gleaning was the most frequently employed feeding method. The birds’ diet consisted of a proprietoryinsectivore meat mix, a variety of arthropods and miscellaneous foods. Nectar consumption was observed in this species for the first time. The study has implications for the prevention of avian aspergillosis in captive birds. © 2001 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.