9. Techniques in physiology and genetics
Alistair Dawson
9.1 Introduction
This chapter is concerned with fields of enquiry that may necessitate invasive
techniques to provide samples or to manipulate physiology. The aim is to provide
some guidance in sampling techniques and a consideration of the associated ethical
and legal procedures. I have made no attempt to describe the technologies
(e.g. radioimmunoassy, DNA fingerprinting) in detail, merely to provide a guide
to more detailed sources of information.
9.2 Sampling techniques
9.2.1Ethical considerations
Much ornithological research will inevitably compromise the well-being of indi-
vidual birds. This may range from disturbance as a result of observational studies
in the field through to physiological and/or psychological pain resulting from
invasive techniques in laboratory-based physiological studies. Consequently,
ornithologists must make ethical decisions when designing studies (e.g. Bekoff
1993; Emlen 1993). They must balance the likely scientific or conservation gain
(new or useful information) against the cost to the bird (suffering of the individual).
This is particularly true for physiological studies. Everyone would agree that
unnecessary pain is unacceptable. But there is no simple way to define what
potential scientific gain justifies a particular degree of suffering. In some coun-
tries it is a legal requirement to address this ethical issue and to justify proposed
procedures. Many ornithological journals have an ethical policy (e.g. Ibis,
Volume 137 pp 457–458) that must be complied with before a paper can be
considered for publication.