The karyotypes of six species of birds, belonging to three different orders
are described for the first time. Metaphases were obtained using periphera
l blood lymphocyte culture. Somatic chromosomes were studied using conventi
onal staining, and G- and C-banding techniques. The karyotypes were compare
d to those in the literature from animals of the same family. Syrigma sibil
atrix, Ardea cocoi and Tigrisoma lineatum (Ciconiiformes: Ardeidae) showed
62, 64 and 72 chromosomes, respectively. Cygnus melancoryphus and Sarkidior
nis melanotos (Anseriformes: Anatidae) have 78 and 80 chromosomes, respecti
vely. Nothocrax urumutum (Galliformes: Cracidae) exhibited 92 chromosomes.