Management Practices of Cockatiel Birds in Chattogram: A Study on Housing, Nutrition, and Health Care

Fariat Muntaha, Shakib Zaman*, Md Naim Uddin Nipu and Mahmudur Rahman

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulsi, Chattogram-4425, Bangladesh.

Editor | Muhammad Abubakar, National Veterinary Laboratories, Park Road, Islamabad, Pakistan.

Received | April 30, 2025; Accepted | February 10, 2025; Published | May 29, 2025

*Correspondence | Shakib Zaman, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulsi, Chattogram-4425, Bangladesh; Email: [email protected]

Citation | Muntaha, F., S. Zaman, M.N.U. Nipu and M. Rahman. 2025. Management practices of cockatiel birds in Chattogram: A study on housing, nutrition, and health care. Veterinary Sciences: Research and Reviews, 11(1): 114-122.

DOI | https://dx.doi.org/10.17582/journal.vsrr/2025/11.1.114.122

Keywords | Management, Cockatiel, Veterinarian, Health, Welfare

Copyright: 2025 by the authors. Licensee ResearchersLinks Ltd, England, UK.

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Introduction

The cockatiel, or Nymphicus hollandicus, is a lovable and amiable bird that is well-known for its eye-catching looks and captivating demeanor. These birds are originally from Australia, but because of their friendliness and capacity for sound imitation, they have become extremely popular as companion pets all around the world. In Bangladesh, the interest in cockatiels has increased in recent years, leading to a huge community of admirers and breeders. The rearing of pet birds serves as an important societal measure for stress alleviation. Pet bird rearing is a significant social practice with psychological and economic implications. As companions, pet birds provide emotional support, reduce stress, and help establish a structured routine, promoting mental well-being. Additionally, the pet bird industry offers various economic opportunities, particularly for unemployed youth, by creating paths for employment and income generation. Key sectors within this industry include bird breeding, veterinary care, pet supply businesses, and digital content creation, all of which contribute to individual livelihoods and the broader economy. Considering these two advantages, encouraging responsible ownership and optimizing the social impact of pet bird rearing requires an awareness of how it improves human well-being and financial sustainability. Cockatiels have many distinct features such as attractive colors and the ability to make good companions both of which have enhanced their popularity. The present study made a systematic inquiry into the subject of bird care including selection criteria, housing, and feeding strategies followed in pet birds by their owners. Most of the owners purchased birds from local breeders. Vriends (1989) opined that in order to gain real pleasure from bird keeping, quality birds should be purchased from reputable pet sources and never be tempted to buy inferior stock. This is true as the price of the birds depends on the breed quality and pedigree. Housing is fundamental to cockatiel care. A pet cage often featured a hollow box-shaped base with a roof linked to the base, according to research by Markey et al. (1996). The integrated roof design enhances accessibility to the enclosure’s interior, making cleaning, maintenance, and overall care more convenient while ensuring a safer and more hygienic environment for the birds. Housing is one of the first things to think about when getting a pet bird according to Nett and Tully (2003). Although they should be confined to a cage when their owner is a way to prevent harm to themselves and damage to the home, birds may be left free in a secured room on perches under supervision. An appropriate cage setup not only provides safety but also encourages natural behaviors.

Environmental enrichment in the form of varied perches, toys, and spatial arrangements significantly enhances the psychological well-being of pet birds. Additionally, housing location whether indoors or outdoors can affect a cockatiel’s exposure to environmental stressors, making it vital for owners to consider factors such as temperature, humidity, and noise levels.

For the general health and wellbeing of pet cockatiel, water is essential. It is essential for several body processes, such as digestion, blood flow, and temperature control. Sufficient hydration promotes organ health, facilitates the absorption of nutrients, and keeps feathers in good condition Fresh water is also necessary to encourage healthy habits like drinking and bathing, which are critical to their physical and emotional well-being. Having easily accessible and clean water is one of the easiest, yet most crucial, ways to guarantee your cockatiel’s success. The birds should always have access to clean, fresh water, as well as sugar water in the summer and honey water once a week, according to Vriends (1989). The dietary requirements of cockatiels are comparable to those of other bird species, according to Earle and Clark (1991). When adding supplements to the diet, extreme caution should be used to prevent toxicity issues. A well-balanced pet bird diet should include a variety of nutrients to satisfy the bird’s needs, and the food should provide the nutrients the animal needs in accordance with its age, health, and reproductive state. Veterinarians continue to advise unsuitable meals for birds despite the fact that malnutrition is a major factor in nine out of ten clinical cases and is rarely addressed. Feeding practices are equally critical, as diet directly impacts the health and longevity of cockatiels. Butcher and Miles (1996) noted that the diet of any companion animal should be a balanced diet. A balanced pet bird diet should contain a combination of nutrients to meet the nutritional requirements of the bird and the diet being fed should furnish the nutrients required by the animal in relation to its age, health, and breeding status. Malnutrition is a major culprit in nine out of ten and this is largely ignored in all clinical cases, by veterinarians who continue to recommend inappropriate diets for birds. A balanced diet typically includes a mix of seeds, pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Owners must be educated on proper nutritional guidelines to avoid common health issues associated with poor diet. This type of study on cockatiel was never done in my study area. This is the reason that motivated me to conduct this survey. The study’s exclusive focus on Chattogram may not accurately represent cockatiel ownership practices in other parts of Bangladesh with distinct environmental and socioeconomic circumstances, necessitating further research in this area. Further research is needed to fully examine the differences in housing conditions, temperature, humidity, and noise levels, as these factors may have an effect on the health and behavior of cockatiels. However, this report aims to comprehensively analyze and evaluate the management practices for cockatiels, focusing on key areas: housing, feeding, health, and enrichment.

Materials and Methods

Study population

In this study, the study population was pet cockatiel birds. The study was conducted on the management of cockatiel birds. A total of 60 cockatiel owners in Chattogram, Bangladesh, were randomly selected for interviews, ensuring that each had at least four birds. Participation was entirely voluntary, allowing owners to choose whether to take part in the study. Informed consent was obtained from all respondents before conducting the interviews. Participants were fully informed about the study purpose, data usage, and their right to withdraw at any time without consequences. Additionally, confidentiality and anonymity were maintained, with no personal identifiers recorded in the dataset.

Study period

The study was conducted from March 2024 to September 2024.

Study design

Microsoft Excel and STATA 18 were used for data analysis, with p-values ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant to determine meaningful associations within the dataset. This threshold was applied to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings.

Data collection

As per the questionnaire, there were various data that were collected. The collected data mostly focused on the basic management tools and general information about birds. The general information includes type of cockatiel and purpose of rearing etc. Management tools included rearing system, time spent in cage, cage cleaning, source of water, disease history, interaction with owner, activities shared with birds, health management etc.

Data analysis

To demonstrate frequency and percentage of the variables, all compiled data were imported in Microsoft Excel and analyzed through STATA 18 for further discussion.

Result and Discussion

Data collected concerning general information, housing, feeding and health management from 60 pet owners were analyzed and presented in four subsections as given below.

General information

Table 1 explores the data on cockatiel ownership, focusing on the types, ages, and purposes of rearing this popular pet bird. The results reveal a diverse range of preferences among owners, which can inform better care practices and enhance the well-being of cockatiels.

In terms of cockatiel types, the data shows that the normal gray variety is the most common, comprising 33.33% of respondents pets. This is followed by lutino and a combination of normal gray and lutino, each representing 23.33%. Cinnamon cockatiels account

 

Table 1: Preference of bird type and purpose of rearing.

Criteria	Variables	Frequency	Percentage (%)	χ² (chi square) value	P value
Type	Normal gray (NG)	20	33.33	11.53	0.022
	Lutino	14	23.33
	Cinnamon	10	16.66
	NG and Lutino	14	23.33
	NG, Lutino and Cinnamon	4	6.67
Purpose of rearing	Business	10	16.66	10	0.0067
	Hobby	20	33.33
	Companionship	30	50

 

for 16.66%, while only 6.67% of respondents own all three types of cockatiels. The preference for normal gray cockatiels may be attributed to their availability in the market, as well as their established popularity due to characteristics such as temperament and adaptability. Understanding these preferences can guide breeders and pet stores in their stock choices, ensuring that they meet the demands of potential buyers. The data then highlights the various purposes for which cockatiels are reared. Companionship is the primary motivation, cited by 50% of respondents. This emphasizes the social nature of cockatiels and their need for interaction, reflecting a growing recognition among owners of the emotional bonds that can form between birds and humans. 33.33% of the respondents showed hobby as their reason to keep cockatiel, suggesting that many owners enjoy the enriching experience of caring for cockatiels as a pastime. A smaller portion, 16.66%, indicates a business-oriented approach, which may involve breeding or selling birds. Similarly, a survey in Gujarat, India (Patel et al., 2024), found that 48% of respondents kept cockatiels for companionship, with a smaller percentage focusing on hobby and commercial purposes. This consistency across regions underscores the social nature of cockatiels and their popularity as companion pets. However, a study in Tehran, Iran reported a higher proportion of ownership for hobby purposes (45%), reflecting regional variations in the motivations behind cockatiel rearing. The significant emphasis on companionship underscores the importance of fostering strong human-animal relationships, which is essential for the well-being of cockatiels.

 

Table 2: Details of caging system.

Details	Variables	Frequency	Percent (%)	χ² (chi square) value	P value
Location of cage	In house	46	76.66	17.06	0.00
	Terrace	14	23.33
Type of cage	Custom-built	10	16.66	26.67	0.00
	Readymade	50	83.33
Cleaning cage	Daily	14	23.33	17.06	0.00
	Once a week	46	76.66

 

Housing system

Table 2 reveals the data of the overall caging system of cockatiel management. The predominant choice of keeping cages in the house (76.66%) underscores the emphasis pet owners place on proximity to their pets. This finding aligns with existing literature that suggests indoor environments are preferred for fostering companionship and ensuring safety (Sreeshma et al., 2019). The lower percentage of cages located on terraces (23.33%) may indicate concerns about environmental exposure and the desire for consistent interaction with pets, which is vital for both the animal’s welfare and the owner’s engagement. Furthermore, the decision to house pets indoors may reflect societal trends that prioritize the psychological and emotional benefits of pet companionship. The data reveals a clear preference for readymade cages (83.33%) over custom-built options (16.66%). The study in Thrissur, India (Sreeshma et al., 2019), reported that 74% of pet bird owners preferred indoor housing and 85% utilized readymade cages. Both studies emphasize the role of indoor environments in fostering proximity and interaction. In contrast, a study (Isabella et al., 2010) revealed that 60% of owners used outdoor aviaries, suggesting a preference for a more naturalistic environment in certain regions. This discrepancy may be influenced by factors such as convenience, accessibility, and the availability of various designs that meet the basic needs of pets. Readymade cages often come with features that are designed to enhance animal welfare, making them an attractive option for busy pet owners. The relatively small proportion of custom-built cages suggests that while some owners seek tailored solutions for specific needs, the majority prioritize readily available options that minimize the time and effort involved in cage selection. The study also examined the cleaning habits of pet owners, revealing that 76.66% clean their cages once a week. This cleaning frequency suggests that owners are adopting a manageable routine that balances cleanliness with practical time commitments. The preference for weekly cleaning over daily maintenance could indicate a recognition of the need for hygiene while also reflecting the challenges of maintaining a rigorous cleaning schedule. The smaller percentage of owners who clean their cages daily (23.33%) may represent individuals with heightened sensitivity to hygiene or specific pet care requirements, highlighting variability in pet care practices.

Feeding

Table 3 reveals that a significant majority of cockatiels (56.66%) are fed a combination of seed mixes and vegetables, with 26.67% preferring only seed mixes and 16.67% being fed vegetables alone.

 

Table 3: Feeding practice.

Details	Variables	Frequency	Percentage (%)	χ² (chi square) value	P value
Feed	Seed mix	16	26.67	15.60	0.00
	Vegetables	10	16.67
	Both	34	56.66
Source of water	Boiled water	10	16.67	10	0.01
	Tap water	20	33.33
	Filtered water	30	50
Schedule	Maintained	8	13.33	32.20	0.00
	Not maintained	52	86.67
Time of feeding	Morning	28	46.67	0.26	0.61
	Morning and evening	32	53.33

 

This preference for a mixed diet underscores the importance of nutritional diversity, as it helps meet the dietary needs of cockatiels. Seed mixes typically provide essential fats and proteins, while vegetables contribute vital vitamins and minerals. This finding aligns with avian dietary recommendations, which emphasize the necessity of varied food sources to prevent nutritional deficiencies in these birds (Ritchie et al., 1994; Roudybush, 1999). A study in Australia (Isabelle et al., 2010) found similar feeding practices, with 60% of owners providing a mixed diet, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrition for cockatiels. In contrast, research in the United States (Roudybush and Grau 1991) indicated a higher reliance on pelleted diets, with 70% of owners preferring pellets, reflecting regional differences in dietary trends. However, the lack of specific recommendations for incorporating fruits and leafy vegetables could limit the nutritional benefits. A varied diet is essential to meet the nutritional needs of cockatiels, preventing deficiencies and diseases such as feather plucking, as supported by Ritchie et al. (1994). Owners should be guided to introduce safe fruits and vegetables gradually into their birds’ diet, ensuring a balance between seed mixes and fresh produce. Efforts should be made to dispel misconceptions about avian nutrition, particularly the over-reliance on seed-based diets, which are often deficient in certain essential vitamins and minerals. In terms of water sources, the results show that 50% of respondents provide filtered water, while 33.33% use tap water and 16.67% offer boiled water. The high percentage of filtered water usage is encouraging, indicating an awareness among cockatiel owners regarding the quality of water provided to their pets. The lower preference for boiled water may reflect a shift toward convenience and accessibility in modern pet care practices. While the high percentage (50%) of filtered water usage reflects awareness of water quality, there is little discussion on the risks of waterborne diseases. Cockatiels are susceptible to infections caused by contaminants commonly found in unfiltered water, such as Salmonella or Escherichia coli. The provision of filtered water significantly minimizes these risks, as noted by Rutkowska et al. (2018), who emphasize the importance of reducing chemical and microbial contaminants in water for birds. Additionally, regular cleaning of water dispensers is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and ensure a safe drinking source. Pet owners could also be educated on recognizing signs of dehydration or waterborne illness to ensure timely intervention. However, the maintenance schedules reveal a concerning trend, with a striking 86.67% of cockatiels not being maintained on a regular schedule, while only 13.33% are. This lack of routine maintenance indicates a critical area for improvement in the care of cockatiels. Regular maintenance, which includes cleaning cages and monitoring health, is essential for preventing disease and ensuring a safe living environment (Collate et al., 2020). This finding highlights the need for increased education for pet owners regarding the importance of consistent care routines, which can significantly enhance the quality of life for cockatiels. Regarding feeding times, the data indicates that practices are nearly evenly divided, with 46.67% of cockatiels being fed in the morning and 53.33% being fed both in the morning and evening. This tendency to feed twice a day suggests an understanding of the importance of routine in a cockatiel’s daily life. Cockatiels are social creatures that thrive on interaction, and feeding times can provide valuable opportunities for bonding between the bird and its owner (Anderson, 2014). However, it is essential for owners to monitor the quantity of food provided to prevent overfeeding, especially when feeding in the evening. The data provides valuable insights into the care practices for cockatiel pet birds. While there is a strong inclination toward varied diets and an awareness of water quality, the lack of consistent maintenance routines presents a significant concern. To address these issues, it is recommended that educational programs be implemented to inform pet owners about the importance of regular care and maintenance. Additionally, clear dietary guidelines should be developed to promote balanced diets that include a mix of seeds, vegetables, and fruits, along with encouraging owners to monitor their birds’ preferences. Finally, promoting awareness about the benefits of using filtered water can help mitigate potential risks associated with tap and boiled water. By fostering a better understanding of cockatiels’ needs among pet owners, we can enhance their overall health and well-being.

Health management

In Table 4, the data indicates that a substantial majority of respondents (86.67%) take their pets for veterinary visits, reflecting a strong commitment to ensuring their health and well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection of health issues, vaccination, and overall preventive care (Boseret et al., 2013). This proactive approach not only addresses existing health concerns but also helps in formulating strategies to prevent future ailments. Conversely, the relatively small percentage of owners (13.33%) who do not visit the vet raises concerns about potential neglect or a lack of awareness regarding the importance of routine health assessments. This gap underscores the need for educational initiatives aimed at informing pet owners about the critical role of veterinary care in maintaining their pets’ health, as well as the potential risks associated with neglecting these visits. However, the owners try to do basic first aid practices, such as stabilizing injured wings, providing a stress-free environment, and ensuring proper nutrition. However, the high percentage of veterinary visits (86.67%) suggests that most owners rely on professional care rather than home remedies. Further research could explore home management strategies and their impact on cockatiel health outcomes. Furthermore, the data reveals specific health issues faced by cockatiels, with bleeding from the wing reported in 33.33% of cases. The occurrence of wing injuries reported in these cases points to potential risks in the birds’ living environment. This could include factors like inadequate cage design, such as cages with sharp edges or insufficient space for movement, as well as insufficient supervision. High-risk activities or interactions with other animals could also contribute to such injuries. To mitigate these risks, pet owners should be educated on selecting cages with appropriate dimensions and materials to ensure safety. Moreover, closer supervision during playtime and interaction with other household pets is essential. Proper environmental enrichment, such as toys and safe perches, can reduce the chances of injuries by engaging the birds in safer activities. Regular monitoring and prompt attention to any signs of injury are crucial for preventing complications and ensuring the overall well-being of these birds. These measures align with the principles outlined by Nett and Tully (2003) in emphasizing the importance of designing safe and stimulating environments for companion birds. Additionally, fractured wings were reported in 26.66% of the cases, suggesting that cockatiels may be engaging in high-risk activities or be in environments that pose significant injury risks. Such findings highlight the necessity for pet owners to supervise their animals closely, particularly in settings where they could encounter dangers, such as stairs, busy areas, or sharp objects. Ensuring a safe living environment is essential for preventing such injuries and promoting a healthier, happier life for cockatiels. Lastly, the occurrence of respiratory issues, such as colds, was noted in 6.67% of the cases. While this indicates that respiratory problems can arise, the lower frequency suggests they may not be as prevalent as more acute injuries. Nevertheless, this finding point to the importance of maintaining a comfortable living environment and monitoring pets for signs of illness, particularly during seasonal changes. A survey in Tehran, Iran, reported that 80% of respondents sought veterinary care regularly. However, respiratory issues were more frequently reported in Iran compared to Chattogram, indicating potential regional environmental impacts on bird health. Meanwhile, a study in the United Kingdom

 

Table 4: Vet visit and health issue.

Details	Variables	Frequency	Percentage (%)	χ² (chi square) value	P value
Vet visit	Yes	52	86.67	32.26	0.00
	No	8	13.33
Previous health issue	Fractured wing	16	26.66	11.47	0.009
	Bleeding from wing	20	33.33
	Cold	4	6.67
	No issue	20	33.33

 

Table 5: Cockatiel care practices.

Details	Variables	Frequency	Percentage (%)	χ² (chi square) value	P value
Training	Yes	26	43.33	1.06	0.3
	No	34	56.67
Owner spending time with pet	Yes	60	100	-	-
	No	0	0
Enrichment in cage (Toys, Perches)	Yes	52	86.67	29.4	0.00
	No	8	13.33

 

(Assis et al., 2016) emphasized a greater focus on preventive care, with 90% of owners adhering to routine health checkups, pointing to heightened awareness in developed regions. However, by addressing the specific health issues identified, such as injuries and respiratory problems, and fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of routine veterinary visits, pet owners can significantly enhance the well-being and quality of life for their cockatiels. The correlation between regular veterinary visits and the management of health issues suggests that responsible pet ownership encompasses both preventive and reactive care. The commitment of most owners to seek veterinary care is a positive indicator of an overall trend toward improved animal welfare. This underscores the need for owner education on home-based health management, including first-aid practices, recognizing early signs of illness, and maintaining a hygienic environment. Owner education on injury prevention can be improved through workshops, educational campaigns, and veterinarian-guided awareness programs. Hands-on training and online resources can teach safe handling, cage setup, and emergency first aid. Pet stores and breeders should provide starter guides and orientation sessions for new owners, while veterinarians can offer personalized advice during check-ups. Additionally, social media groups and community forums can facilitate peer learning, allowing experienced owners to share best practices and raise awareness about common injury risks and prevention strategies. By enhancing their knowledge of preventive and emergency care, owners can play a more proactive role in maintaining their cockatiel’s health and well-being. However, the types of health issues reported indicate that there is still work to be done in terms of injury prevention and education.

Enrichment

Table 5 shows that only 43.33% of respondents engage in training their cockatiels, while 56.67% do not. This indicates a significant gap in training practices, which is crucial for the behavioral management and socialization of cockatiels. Cockatiels are highly intelligent and social birds, and without proper stimulation, they are prone to behavioral issues like feather plucking, excessive screaming, and aggression (Welle and Wilson, 2006). Training plays a crucial role in behavioral management, as it not only helps in strengthening the human-bird bond but also provides mental exercise and discipline. Positive reinforcement techniques like target training, step-up commands, and trick training can help reduce anxiety and prevent destructive behaviors by giving birds a sense of purpose and structure. Birds that receive regular training tend to exhibit higher confidence and more balanced temperaments, making them easier to handle and less prone to stress-related behaviors. Research in Australia (Isabelle et al., 2010) showed that 46% of owners actively trained their birds, reflecting a comparable awareness of behavioral enrichment. However, a study in urban Europe (Assis et al., 2016) reported higher training rates at 60%, potentially due to more widespread access to resources on avian training. Notably, 100% of respondents reported that they spend time with their cockatiels. This strong commitment to companionship is critical for the emotional health of these social birds. Cockatiels, being highly interactive and affectionate, thrive on human interaction, which can reduce stress and anxiety. The unanimous commitment of owners to spending time with their cockatiels underscores a positive trend in responsible pet ownership, highlighting the critical role of fostering strong human-animal relationships for the emotional well-being of these social birds. For cockatiels, regular interaction helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can manifest in behavioral issues if they feel neglected or isolated (Welle and Wilson, 2006). Ultimately, this positive engagement reflects a growing awareness among cockatiel owners about the significance of companionship and interaction in fostering a healthy and fulfilling environment for their pets.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Based on the analysis of cockatiel ownership practices, this study highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership. While many owners demonstrate a commitment to providing a suitable environment and basic care, there is a clear need for increased education and support in areas such as nutrition, health management, and behavioral training. For instance, only 56.66% of owners provide a combination of seed mixes and vegetables, indicating a gap in nutritional knowledge. Additionally, 86.67% of owners do not maintain regular care schedules, which can lead to health problems and neglect. A maximum of the respondents (76.66%) keep their bird in house with them and 100% of the interviewees spend time with their pet, which indicates the beautiful bond between owners and their pet. On the other hand, only 23.33% of owner clean their birds’ cage on a daily basis which might be a hygiene issue leading to poor health condition in bird. By addressing these gaps, we can significantly improve the quality of life for cockatiels and foster stronger human-animal bonds. According to the survey, present owners are more concerned in regards to the health of their pet birds. But improving cockatiel care requires better owner education and training. Awareness programs can help prevent injuries, ensure proper nutrition, and enhance enrichment to reduce stress. Providing spacious, well-designed cages with safe perches can minimize accidents, while regular veterinary check-ups support early disease detection. Maintaining clean water and proper hygiene is also essential to prevent infections. Encouraging training and interactive enrichment can further improve their behavioral well-being. Besides Stronger pet ownership regulations could enhance bird welfare. Implementing a licensing system would ensure owners are educated before acquiring a pet. Setting minimum cage size and safety standards can prevent injuries, while promoting routine vet visits could improve long-term health. Ethical breeding and sales regulations would also help prevent poor housing conditions and promote responsible pet ownership. Strengthening these policies would significantly improve cockatiel care and welfare.

Acknowledgment

Many thanks to the cockatiels’ owner for their kind support and contribution, which were essential to this study.

Novelty Statement

his study is the first to explore how cockatiels are raised in Chattogram, revealing key facts about their care, feeding, housing, and health offering helpful ideas to improve pet bird welfare.

Author’s Contribution

The study was conducted with the active participation of all authors. FM was responsible for data collection, organizing raw data in an Excel sheet, and drafting the initial manuscript. MNUN and SZ supervised the study and contributed to the review and final editing. SZ performed the data analysis and refined the final draft. MR, alongside FM, assisted in data collection. All authors have reviewed and approved the manuscript for submission.

Conflict of interest

The authors have declared no conflict of interest.

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