Pet and Captive Birds as Potential Reservoirs of Zoonotic Bacteria

Thermophilic Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. are zoonotic bacteria, commonly harbored in the enteric tract of avian species. This survey aimed at verifying the presence of these microorganisms in a heterogeneous Italian population of pet birds and captive birds of prey (e.g., Passeriformes, Psittaciformes, Accipitriformes, Falconiformes, Strigiformes) that live in close contact with humans. One hundred and fifty-one individuals were tested for thermophilic Campylobacter spp. and 444 for Salmonella spp.
Source: Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research