Australia’s severe heat is affecting the sperm of the bird population: study

Recent heatwaves and temperature increases are severely impacting bird fertility, according to an Australian-led study.

A pair of Zebra Finches in the Australian heat.

For the avian population, functional and competent sperm is critical for reproduction, and this study led by Macquarie University shows the recent heat is having a devastating impact on the sperm quality of the common zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata).

The zebra finch is commonly found throughout mainland Australia and is considered a very environmentally adaptable bird, capable of breeding in both hot and cool climates. 

The researchers periodically sampled male zebra finches, exposing them to high temperatures from three to 14 consecutive days.

Read the story by Kamin Gock from today’s Melbourne Age - “Australia’s severe heat is affecting the sperm of the bird population: study.”