ABSTRACT
The largest order of birds, Passerines are of high zoological and conservation interest, with aviaries being a common feature in zoological collections globally. Some species, zebra finches and European starlings, for example, are common as research subjects; much of our understanding of the behaviour and physiology of passerines and non-passerines stems from studies into these key species – and this has conservation and husbandry applications. This large and diverse order lends itself to adaptations; Passerines are found across a range of habitats, where food resources have shaped form and function. Galapagos finch beaks, for example, have helped shaped our current understanding of evolution. Many birds in this order are already familiar, canaries, and other songbirds have a long history with humans, and currently some species are experiencing dramatic population declines due to their desirable singing abilities, where cultural and social traditions deplete wild populations. To safeguard these, and other at-risk species, zoos and conservation centres must endeavour to provide the best biologically and ecologically appropriate enclosures to ensure that behavioural diversity is maintained. These considerations are explored in this chapter, drawing on recent research to illustrate how the modern zoo can provide best-practice care for these species.
