Cyclic Changes in the Thyroid and Adrenal Cortex of the Male Starling, Sturnus Vulgaris, and Their Relation to the Sexual Cycle

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Abstract
Changes in the histology of the thyroid and adrenal cortex which occurred between Nov. and June were described in relation to the spermatogenetic cycle. No relation between cyclic thyroid changes and the sexual cycle were found, although one period of colloid resorption roughly coincided with the mating season. Starlings brought into full spermatogenesis by increased artificial illumination showed a hyperplasia of the follicular epithelium. During spermatogenesis the adrenal cortex presented a uniform appearance characterized by fully elaborated spongiocytes. During sexual quiescence or sexual involution other cell types also occurred.