Investigation of Mycoplasma spp. in birds of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo by isolation and PCR

ABSTRACT: Brazil is one of the countries with the most abundant avifauna in the world. The confinement of birds associated with close contact with other animals and humans favor the spread of agents of respiratory diseases. Among them, mycoplasmas can cause asymptomatic or apparent disease that manifests in birds by coughing, sneezing, rales, conjunctivitis, ocular and nasal discharge. Several described mycoplasmas cause disease in birds, especially Mycoplasma gallisepticum(MG) andMycoplasma synoviae(MS). The diagnosis ofMycoplasmaspp. can be done by clinical observation and laboratory analysis. Molecular diagnosis by PCR was boosted by its speed, sensitivity, and low cost of agent isolation techniques that take up to 21 days to complete. This study aimed to verify the occurrence ofMycoplasmaspp. in birds of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo (Rio Zoo), by isolation and PCR. Of the total 635 birds from the Rio Zoo, 81 were studied for detection ofMycoplasmaspp., when taken for routine health assessment exams. These birds belonged to the following orders: Psittaciformes (45), Accipitriformes (18), Galliformes (7), Piciformes (5), Strigiformes (4), Falconiformes (1) and Cariamiformes (1), all individuals already identified by microchip or leg-ring. There was no isolation of mycoplasmas in any of the samples tested, whereas, in the PCR, 62.96% (51/81) were positive, with 1.96% (1/51) identified as MG and 19.61% (10/51) as MS, representing 1.23% (1/81) and 12.34% (10/81) of the total population studied. PCR was shown to be a more effective technique than isolation in the detection ofMycoplasmaspp. in birds. It was possible to detect mycoplasmas in birds from Riozoo with no clinical respiratory signs, with higher MS prevalence than MG. The positivities forMycoplasmaspp., MS, and MG were different among the orders studied, being the highest occurrence in birds of prey, followed by Galliformes and Piciformes. The presence of MG and MS in birds of Rio de Janeiro Zoo confirms the circulation of these agents and the need for further studies on the dissemination of mycoplasmas in zoos for the epidemiological analysis of these bacteria in these places.

RESUMO: O Brasil é um dos países com maior avifauna do mundo. O confinamento de aves associado ao contato próximo a outros animais e seres humanos favorece a disseminação de agentes etiológicos causadores de doenças respiratórias. Dentre eles, os micoplasmas podem causar doença assintomática ou aparente que se manifesta em aves por espirros, estertores, conjuntivite, corrimentos oculares e nasais. São diversos os micoplasmas descritos causadores de doença em aves, com destaque para Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) e Mycoplasma synoviae (MS). O diagnóstico de Mycoplasma spp. pode ser feito pela observação clínica e análises laboratoriais. O diagnóstico molecular pela Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) ganhou impulso por sua rapidez, sensibilidade e baixo custo em relação às técnicas de isolamento do agente que levam até 21 dias para conclusão do gênero Mycoplasma. Objetivou-se verificar a ocorrência da infecção por Mycoplasma spp. em aves no Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro (Rio Zoo), por isolamento e PCR. Do plantel de 635 aves do Rio Zoo, foram estudadas 81 para detecção de Mycoplasma spp., quando contidas para exames rotineiros de avaliação da condição de saúde. Essas aves eram pertencentes às ordens Psittaciformes (45), Accipitriformes (18), Galliformes (7), Piciformes (5), Strigiformes (4), Falconiformes (1) e Cariamiformes (1), todas já identificadas por microchip ou por anilha. Não houve isolamento de micoplasmas em nenhuma das amostras testadas, enquanto na PCR, 62,96% (51/81) foram positivas, sendo 1,96% (1/51) identificadas como MG e 19,61% (10/51) como MS, representando 1,23% (1/81) e 12,34% (10/81) da população total estudada. A PCR demonstrou ser uma técnica mais efetiva que o isolamento na detecção de Mycoplasma spp. em aves. Foi possível detectar micoplasmas nas aves do Riozoo sem sinal clínico respiratório, tendo MS maior prevalência do que MG. As positividades para Mycoplasma spp., MG e MS foram diferentes entre as ordens de aves estudadas, sendo a maior ocorrência nas aves de rapina, seguida dos Galliformes e dos Piciformes. A presença de MG e MS nas aves do Rio de Janeiro Zoo confirma a circulação destes agentes e a necessidade de mais estudos sobre a disseminação de micoplasmas em zoológicos para análise epidemiológica dessas bactérias nesse local.

Investigation of Mycoplasma spp. in birds of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo by isolation and PCR / Investigação de Mycoplasma spp. em aves do Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro por isolamento e PCR

Brazil is one of the countries with the most abundant avifauna in the world. The confinement of birds associated with close contact with other animals and humans favor the spread of agents of respiratory diseases. Among them, mycoplasmas can cause asymptomatic or apparent disease that manifests in birds by coughing, sneezing, rales, conjunctivitis, ocular and nasal discharge. Several described mycoplasmas cause disease in birds, especially Mycoplasma gallisepticum(MG) andMycoplasma synoviae(MS). The diagnosis ofMycoplasmaspp. can be done by clinical observation and laboratory analysis. Molecular diagnosis by PCR was boosted by its speed, sensitivity, and low cost of agent isolation techniques that take up to 21 days to complete. This study aimed to verify the occurrence ofMycoplasmaspp. in birds of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo (Rio Zoo), by isolation and PCR. Of the total 635 birds from the Rio Zoo, 81 were studied for detection ofMycoplasmaspp., when taken for routine health assessment exams. These birds belonged to the following orders: Psittaciformes (45), Accipitriformes (18), Galliformes (7), Piciformes (5), Strigiformes (4), Falconiformes (1) and Cariamiformes (1), all individuals already identified by microchip or leg-ring. There was no isolation of mycoplasmas in any of the samples tested, whereas, in the PCR, 62.96% (51/81) were positive, with 1.96% (1/51) identified as MG and 19.61% (10/51) as MS, representing 1.23% (1/81) and 12.34% (10/81) of the total population studied. PCR was shown to be a more effective technique than isolation in the detection ofMycoplasmaspp. in birds. It was possible to detect mycoplasmas in birds from Riozoo with no clinical respiratory signs, with higher MS prevalence than MG. The positivities forMycoplasmaspp., MS, and MG were different among the orders studied, being the highest occurrence in birds of prey, followed by Galliformes and Piciformes. The presence of MG and MS in birds of Rio de Janeiro Zoo confirms the circulation of these agents and the need for further studies on the dissemination of mycoplasmas in zoos for the epidemiological analysis of these bacteria in these places.(AU)

O Brasil é um dos países com maior avifauna do mundo. O confinamento de aves associado ao contato próximo a outros animais e seres humanos favorece a disseminação de agentes etiológicos causadores de doenças respiratórias. Dentre eles, os micoplasmas podem causar doença assintomática ou aparente que se manifesta em aves por espirros, estertores, conjuntivite, corrimentos oculares e nasais. São diversos os micoplasmas descritos causadores de doença em aves, com destaque para Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) e Mycoplasma synoviae (MS). O diagnóstico de Mycoplasma spp. pode ser feito pela observação clínica e análises laboratoriais. O diagnóstico molecular pela Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) ganhou impulso por sua rapidez, sensibilidade e baixo custo em relação às técnicas de isolamento do agente que levam até 21 dias para conclusão do gênero Mycoplasma. Objetivou-se verificar a ocorrência da infecção por Mycoplasma spp. em aves no Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro (Rio Zoo), por isolamento e PCR. Do plantel de 635 aves do Rio Zoo, foram estudadas 81 para detecção de Mycoplasma spp., quando contidas para exames rotineiros de avaliação da condição de saúde. Essas aves eram pertencentes às ordens Psittaciformes (45), Accipitriformes (18), Galliformes (7), Piciformes (5), Strigiformes (4), Falconiformes (1) e Cariamiformes (1), todas já identificadas por microchip ou por anilha. Não houve isolamento de micoplasmas em nenhuma das amostras testadas, enquanto na PCR, 62,96% (51/81) foram positivas, sendo 1,96% (1/51) identificadas como MG e 19,61% (10/51) como MS, representando 1,23% (1/81) e 12,34% (10/81) da população total estudada. A PCR demonstrou ser uma técnica mais efetiva que o isolamento na detecção de Mycoplasma spp. em aves. Foi possível detectar micoplasmas nas aves do Riozoo sem sinal clínico respiratório, tendo MS maior prevalência do que MG. As positividades para Mycoplasma spp., MG e MS foram diferentes entre as ordens de aves estudadas, sendo a maior ocorrência nas aves de rapina, seguida dos Galliformes e dos Piciformes. A presença de MG e MS nas aves do Rio de Janeiro Zoo confirma a circulação destes agentes e a necessidade de mais estudos sobre a disseminação de micoplasmas em zoológicos para análise epidemiológica dessas bactérias nesse local.(AU)

Investigation of Mycoplasma spp. in birds of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo by isolation and PCR / Investigação de Mycoplasma spp. em aves do Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro por isolamento e PCR

Brazil is one of the countries with the most abundant avifauna in the world. The confinement of birds associated with close contact with other animals and humans favor the spread of agents of respiratory diseases. Among them, mycoplasmas can cause asymptomatic or apparent disease that manifests in birds by coughing, sneezing, rales, conjunctivitis, ocular and nasal discharge. Several described mycoplasmas cause disease in birds, especially Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae(MS). The diagnosis of Mycoplasma spp. can be done by clinical observation and laboratory analysis. Molecular diagnosis by PCR was boosted by its speed, sensitivity, and low cost of agent isolation techniques that take up to 21 days to complete. This study aimed to verify the occurrence of Mycoplasma spp. in birds of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo (Rio Zoo), by isolation and PCR. Of the total 635 birds from the Rio Zoo, 81 were studied for detection of Mycoplasma spp., when taken for routine health assessment exams. These birds belonged to the following orders: Psittaciformes (45), Accipitriformes (18), Galliformes (7), Piciformes (5), Strigiformes (4), Falconiformes (1) and Cariamiformes (1), all individuals already identified by microchip or leg-ring. There was no isolation of mycoplasmas in any of the samples tested, whereas, in the PCR, 62.96% (51/81) were positive, with 1.96% (1/51) identified as MG and 19.61% (10/51) as MS, representing 1.23% (1/81) and 12.34% (10/81) of the total population studied. PCR was shown to be a more effective technique than isolation in the detection of Mycoplasma spp. in birds. It was possible to detect mycoplasmas in birds from Riozoo with no clinical respiratory signs, with higher MS prevalence than MG. The positivities for Mycoplasma spp., MS, and MG were different among the orders studied, being the highest occurrence in birds of prey, followed by Galliformes and Piciformes...(AU)

O Brasil é um dos países com maior avifauna do mundo. O confinamento de aves associado ao contato próximo a outros animais e seres humanos favorece a disseminação de agentes etiológicos causadores de doenças respiratórias. Dentre eles, os micoplasmas podem causar doença assintomática ou aparente que se manifesta em aves por espirros, estertores, conjuntivite, corrimentos oculares e nasais. São diversos os micoplasmas descritos causadores de doença em aves, com destaque para Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) e Mycoplasma synoviae (MS). O diagnóstico de Mycoplasma spp. pode ser feito pela observação clínica e análises laboratoriais. O diagnóstico molecular pela Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) ganhou impulso por sua rapidez, sensibilidade e baixo custo em relação às técnicas de isolamento do agente que levam até 21 dias para conclusão do gênero Mycoplasma. Objetivou-se verificar a ocorrência da infecção por Mycoplasma spp. em aves no Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro (Rio Zoo), por isolamento e PCR. Do plantel de 635 aves do Rio Zoo, foram estudadas 81 para detecção de Mycoplasma spp., quando contidas para exames rotineiros de avaliação da condição de saúde. Essas aves eram pertencentes às ordens Psittaciformes (45), Accipitriformes (18), Galliformes (7), Piciformes (5), Strigiformes (4), Falconiformes (1) e Cariamiformes (1), todas já identificadas por microchip ou por anilha. Não houve isolamento de micoplasmas em nenhuma das amostras testadas, enquanto na PCR, 62,96% (51/81) foram positivas, sendo 1,96% (1/51) identificadas como MG e 19,61% (10/51) como MS, representando 1,23% (1/81) e 12,34% (10/81) da população total estudada. A PCR demonstrou ser uma técnica mais efetiva que o isolamento na detecção de Mycoplasma spp. em aves. Foi possível detectar micoplasmas nas aves do Riozoo sem sinal clínico respiratório, tendo MS maior prevalência do que MG...(AU)

Captive wild birds as reservoirs of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC)

ABSTRACT Psittacine birds have been identified as reservoirs of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, a subset of pathogens associated with mortality of children in tropical countries. The role of other orders of birds as source of infection is unclear. The aim of this study was to perform the molecular diagnosis of infection with diarrheagenic E. coli in 10 different orders of captive wild birds in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Fecal samples were analyzed from 516 birds belonging to 10 orders: Accipitriformes, Anseriformes, Columbiformes, Falconiformes, Galliformes, Passeriformes, Pelecaniformes, Piciformes, Psittaciformes and Strigiformes. After isolation, 401 E. coli strains were subjected to multiplex PCR system with amplification of genes eae and bfp (EPEC), stx1 and stx2 for STEC. The results of these tests revealed 23/401 (5.74%) positive strains for eae gene, 16/401 positive strains for the bfp gene (3.99%) and 3/401 positive for stx2 gene (0.75%) distributed among the orders of Psittaciformes, Strigiformes and Columbiformes. None of strains were positive for stx1 gene. These data reveal the infection by STEC, typical and atypical EPEC in captive birds. The frequency of these pathotypes is low and restricted to few orders, but the data suggest the potential public health risk that these birds represent as reservoirs of diarrheagenic E. coli.

Captive wild birds as reservoirs of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC)

ABSTRACT Psittacine birds have been identified as reservoirs of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, a subset of pathogens associated with mortality of children in tropical countries. The role of other orders of birds as source of infection is unclear. The aim of this study was to perform the molecular diagnosis of infection with diarrheagenic E. coli in 10 different orders of captive wild birds in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Fecal samples were analyzed from 516 birds belonging to 10 orders: Accipitriformes, Anseriformes, Columbiformes, Falconiformes, Galliformes, Passeriformes, Pelecaniformes, Piciformes, Psittaciformes and Strigiformes. After isolation, 401 E. coli strains were subjected to multiplex PCR system with amplification of genes eae and bfp (EPEC), stx1 and stx2 for STEC. The results of these tests revealed 23/401 (5.74%) positive strains for eae gene, 16/401 positive strains for the bfp gene (3.99%) and 3/401 positive for stx2 gene (0.75%) distributed among the orders of Psittaciformes, Strigiformes and Columbiformes. None of strains were positive for stx1 gene. These data reveal the infection by STEC, typical and atypical EPEC in captive birds. The frequency of these pathotypes is low and restricted to few orders, but the data suggest the potential public health risk that these birds represent as reservoirs of diarrheagenic E. coli.(AU)

VALORES HEMATOLÓGICOS E BIOQUÍMICOS PARA AVES DE RAPINA ATENDIDAS NA GRANDE CUIABÁ/MT

O Brasil é um dos países que concentra o maior número de espécies de rapinantes do mundo cujo aumento da casuística de atendimento médico veterinário para esse grupo deriva, predominantemente, como consequência de ações antrópicas. Os exames sanguíneos, tem relevante papel na clínica de aves, especialmente no monitoramento da saúde das mesmas, sendo a comparação com dados obtidos de populações saudáveis, de valiosa importância para o diagnóstico/prognóstico clínico. Desta forma os objetivos deste trabalho foram descrever valores hematológicos e bioquímicos para aves de rapina saudáveis recebidas pelos órgãos ambientais em Cuiabá e Várzea Grande/MT. Foram coletadas 71 amostras de 13 diferentes espécies de rapinantes entre novembro de 2018 e novembro de 2019. Os valores hematológicos (n=71) e bioquímicos (n=47) descritivos médios e desvios-padrão foram determinados em seis diferentes espécies utilizando o software Microsoft Excel®, com o suplemento Reference Value Advisor (versão 2.1) e, em outras quatro espécies, os valores apresentados para cada uma desses parâmetros foram somente os observáveis. Das 13 espécies analisadas, valores hematológicos e bioquímicos das espécies Glaucidium brasilianum (3), Herpetotheres cachinnans (1) e Urubutinga urubutinga (1) foram descritas pela primeira vez neste estudo. Os valores dos parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos das demais espécies de vida livre estudadas diferem, em sua maioria, daqueles descritos para rapinantes em condição de cativeiro.

Brazil is one of the countries that concentrates the largest number of species of predators in the world whose increase in the number of veterinary medical care for this group derives, predominantly, as a consequence of anthropic actions. Blood tests have an important role in the poultry clinic, especially in monitoring their health, and the comparison with data obtained from healthy populations is of great importance for the diagnosis / clinical prognosis. Thus, the objectives of this work were to describe hematological and biochemical values for healthy birds of prey received by environmental agencies in Cuiabá and Várzea Grande / MT. 71 samples were collected from 13 different species of predators between November 2018 and November 2019. The mean descriptive hematological (n = 71) and biochemical (n = 47) values and standard deviations were determined in six different species using Microsoft software Excel®, with the Reference Value Advisor supplement (version 2.1) and, in four other species, the values presented for each of these parameters were only observable. Of the 13 species analyzed, hematological and biochemical values of the species Glaucidium brasilianum (Strigidae), Herpetotheres cachinnans (Falconidae) and Urubutinga urubutinga (Accipitridae) were described for the first time in this study. The values of hematological and biochemical parameters of the other free-living species studied differ, for the most part, from those described for raptors in captivity.

PESQUISA DE Mycoplasma spp. E Chlamydia spp. EM AVES E SERPENTES DO ZOOLÓGICO DO RIO DE JANEIRO

Clamidiose e micoplasmose são doenças de grande importância em animais sob cuidados humanos, por causarem alterações respiratórias e reprodutivas, alta mortalidade e morbidade. O objetivo do presente estudo foi detectar Chlamydia spp. por PCR e Mycoplasma spp. por isolamento e PCR em aves e serpentes no Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro (Riozoo). Para o estudo de Chlamydia spp. foram testados 123 animais: sete serpentes (Família Pythonidae), 68 aves das Ordens Psittaciformes (n=48), Galliformes (n=6), Accipitriformes (n=5), Piciformes (n=3), Strigiformes (n=4), Falconiformes (n=1) e Cariamiformes (n=1) e 48 indivíduos da espécie Cairina moschata (pato-crioulo) de vida livre, dos quais foram coletados suabes cloacais. Nenhum foi positivo. Para detecção de Mycoplasma spp. do plantel de 635 aves, foram estudadas 81, contidas para exames rotineiros de avaliação da condição de saúde: Ordens Psittaciformes (n=45), Accipitriformes (n=18), Galliformes (n=7), Piciformes (n=5), Strigiformes (n=4), Falconiformes (n=1) e Cariamiformes (1) e 82 patos-crioulos de vida livre. Não houve isolamento em nenhuma das amostras testadas das aves do plantel, já nos patos, a positividade foi 21,9% (18/82). À PCR, 63,0% (51/81) das aves do plantel foram positivas para presença de bactéria da classe Mollicutes, 1,2% (1/81) para Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) e 12,3% (10/81) para M. sinoviae (MS) e nos patos 17,1% (14/82) foram positivas para Mollicutes, sendo delas 6,1% (5/82) MG e 3,6% (3/82) MS. Amostras de patos no sequenciamento, apresentaram similaridade com MG (GenBank MN067530); Acholeplasma laidlawii; Acholeplasma spp.; M. glycophilum; M. columborale; M. gallinaceum e M. ansersalpingitis. Também foram estudadas todas as 26 serpentes do Riozoo por isolamento e PCR para Mycoplasma spp. Ao isolamento, houve positividade em 19,23% (5/26), enquanto à PCR, a positividade foi de 65,38% (17/26). Nas sequências obtidas houve similaridade (95 a 97%) com M. agassizii, M. testudineum e algumas espécies de micoplasmas ainda não identificadas encontradas em quelônios. Pela primeira vez foi observado Mycoplasma spp. em indivíduos das famílias Boidae e Viperidae. Estudos mais aprofundados sobre a presença de Chlamydia spp. são necessários para estudo da epidemiologia desse agente em animais de zoológicos. A presença de Acholeplasma spp., e Mycoplasma spp. em aves do plantel e serpentes do Riozoo confirma a circulação destes agentes e a necessidade de mais estudos sobre a disseminação de micoplasmas em zoológicos para análise epidemiológica dessas bactérias nesses locais.

Chlamydiosis and mycoplasmosis are diseases of great importance in animals under human care, because they cause respiratory and reproductive disorders, high mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to detect Chlamydia spp. by PCR and Mycoplasma spp. by isolation and PCR in birds and snakes at Rio de Janeiro Zoo (Riozoo). For the study of Chlamydia spp. (n=5), Piciformes (n=3), Strigiformes (n=4), Galliformes (n=6), Falconiformes (n=1) and Cariamiformes (n=1) and 48 free- living Cairina moschata (Muscovy ducks), from which cloacal swabs were collected. Neither was positive. For detection of Mycoplasma spp. of the 635 avian flocks, 81 were studied when taken for routine health assessment evaluations: Psittaciformes (n=45), Accipitriformes (n=18), Galliformes (n=7), Piciformes (n=5), Strigiformes (n=4), Falconiformes(n=1) and Cariamiformes (n=1) and 82 free-living Muscovy ducks. There was no isolation in any of the tested samples of the birds of the stock, while in the Muscovy ducks, the positivity was 21.9% (18/82). At PCR, 63.0% (51/81) of the flocks were positive for Mollicutes, 1.2% (1/81) for Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and 12.3% (10/81) for M. sinoviae (MS) and 17.1% (14/82) Muscovy ducks were positive for Mollicutes, being 6.1% (5/82) MG and 3.6% (3/82) MS. Ducks samples in sequencing showed similarity with MG (GenBank MN067530); Acholeplasma laidlawii; Acholeplasma spp .; M. glycophilum; M. columborale; M. gallinaceum and M. ansersalpingitis. All 26 snakes from Riozoo were also studied for isolation and PCR for Mycoplasma spp. Upon isolation, there was positivity in 19.23% (5/26), whereas in PCR, the positivity was 65.38% (17/26). In the sequences obtained there was similarity (95 to 97%) with M. agassizii, M. testudineum and some species of unidentified mycoplasmas found in chelonians. This is the first report of Mycoplasma spp. in individuals of families Boidae and Viperidae. Further studies on the presence of Chlamydia spp. are necessary; to study the epidemiology of this agent in zoo animals. The presence of Acholeplasma spp., MG and Mycoplasma spp. in avian and snakes of Riozoo confirms the circulation of these agents and the need for further studies on the dissemination of mycoplasmas in zoos for the epidemiological analysis of these bacteria in these places.

Health assessment of raptors in triage in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil

Falconiformes (n=82), Strigiformes (n=84) and Cathartiformes (n=14) at a triage center (CETAS-Belo Horizonte, IBAMA, Brazil) were examined between 2008 and 2010 . No bird was reactive at hemagglutination-inhibition (HI) for antibodies against Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg). Two Caracara plancus (2/68) had HI titers (16-32) against Newcastle disease virus. No Chlamydophila psittaci DNA was detected in the liver (PCR; n=95). Blood smears (Giemsa; n=89) and spleen fragments (PCR; n=82) were 13.5% and 8.5% positive, respectively, for Haemoproteus only. Necropsy of Cathartiformes (n=10), Falconiformes (n=42) and Strigiformes (n=57) showed that trauma injuries were the main cause (63.3%) of admission and death, being fractures (38.5%) of the thoracic limbs (57.1%) the most frequent. Nematode (12.8%), cestode (1.8%), trematode (0.9%), and acanthocephalan (2.7%) parasite infections were relevant. Mites (Acari) were the most frequent (17.4%) external parasites, particularly Ornithonyssus sylviarum in Asio clamator and Amblyomma cajennense in Tyto alba. Chewing lice (10.1%) and Pseudolynchia spp. (9.2%) were also found. Histomonas spp. (6.4%) was found in the ceca of Bubo virginianus, Athene cunicularia, Tyto alba, and Asio clamator, but not in Falconiformes or Cathartiformes. Trichomonas spp. (oral cavity, pharynx and upper esophagus; 9.1%) was detected in Falconiformes and Strigiformes, but not in Cathartiformes. Trichomonas spp. were found in A. cunicularia, Asio clamator, Glaucidium brasilianum and Tyto alba (Strigiformes), and in Rupornis magnirostris, Milvago chimachima, Falco femoralis, Falco sparverius and Caracara plancus (Falconiformes). Coccidia (9.1%) (Sarcocystis spp., 6.4%) and mycosis were observed in most Tyto alba (70%). The evaluated Orders may not pose risks for commercial poultry production. Habitat loss and urban adaptation may be increasingly affecting raptors.

Health assessment of raptors in triage in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil

Falconiformes (n=82), Strigiformes (n=84) and Cathartiformes (n=14) at a triage center (CETAS-Belo Horizonte, IBAMA, Brazil) were examined between 2008 and 2010 . No bird was reactive at hemagglutination-inhibition (HI) for antibodies against Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg). Two Caracara plancus (2/68) had HI titers (16-32) against Newcastle disease virus. No Chlamydophila psittaci DNA was detected in the liver (PCR; n=95). Blood smears (Giemsa; n=89) and spleen fragments (PCR; n=82) were 13.5% and 8.5% positive, respectively, for Haemoproteus only. Necropsy of Cathartiformes (n=10), Falconiformes (n=42) and Strigiformes (n=57) showed that trauma injuries were the main cause (63.3%) of admission and death, being fractures (38.5%) of the thoracic limbs (57.1%) the most frequent. Nematode (12.8%), cestode (1.8%), trematode (0.9%), and acanthocephalan (2.7%) parasite infections were relevant. Mites (Acari) were the most frequent (17.4%) external parasites, particularly Ornithonyssus sylviarum in Asio clamator and Amblyomma cajennense in Tyto alba. Chewing lice (10.1%) and Pseudolynchia spp. (9.2%) were also found. Histomonas spp. (6.4%) was found in the ceca of Bubo virginianus, Athene cunicularia, Tyto alba, and Asio clamator, but not in Falconiformes or Cathartiformes. Trichomonas spp. (oral cavity, pharynx and upper esophagus; 9.1%) was detected in Falconiformes and Strigiformes, but not in Cathartiformes. Trichomonas spp. were found in A. cunicularia, Asio clamator, Glaucidium brasilianum and Tyto alba (Strigiformes), and in Rupornis magnirostris, Milvago chimachima, Falco femoralis, Falco sparverius and Caracara plancus (Falconiformes). Coccidia (9.1%) (Sarcocystis spp., 6.4%) and mycosis were observed in most Tyto alba (70%). The evaluated Orders may not pose risks for commercial poultry production. Habitat loss and urban adaptation may be increasingly affecting raptors.

Health assessment of raptors in triage in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil

Falconiformes (n=82), Strigiformes (n=84) and Cathartiformes (n=14) at a triage center (CETAS-Belo Horizonte, IBAMA, Brazil) were examined between 2008 and 2010 . No bird was reactive at hemagglutination-inhibition (HI) for antibodies against Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg). Two Caracara plancus (2/68) had HI titers (16-32) against Newcastle disease virus. No Chlamydophila psittaci DNA was detected in the liver (PCR; n=95). Blood smears (Giemsa; n=89) and spleen fragments (PCR; n=82) were 13.5% and 8.5% positive, respectively, for Haemoproteus only. Necropsy of Cathartiformes (n=10), Falconiformes (n=42) and Strigiformes (n=57) showed that trauma injuries were the main cause (63.3%) of admission and death, being fractures (38.5%) of the thoracic limbs (57.1%) the most frequent. Nematode (12.8%), cestode (1.8%), trematode (0.9%), and acanthocephalan (2.7%) parasite infections were relevant. Mites (Acari) were the most frequent (17.4%) external parasites, particularly Ornithonyssus sylviarum in Asio clamator and Amblyomma cajennense in Tyto alba. Chewing lice (10.1%) and Pseudolynchia spp. (9.2%) were also found. Histomonas spp. (6.4%) was found in the ceca of Bubo virginianus, Athene cunicularia, Tyto alba, and Asio clamator, but not in Falconiformes or Cathartiformes. Trichomonas spp. (oral cavity, pharynx and upper esophagus; 9.1%) was detected in Falconiformes and Strigiformes, but not in Cathartiformes. Trichomonas spp. were found in A. cunicularia, Asio clamator, Glaucidium brasilianum and Tyto alba (Strigiformes), and in Rupornis magnirostris, Milvago chimachima, Falco femoralis, Falco sparverius and Caracara plancus (Falconiformes). Coccidia (9.1%) (Sarcocystis spp., 6.4%) and mycosis were observed in most Tyto alba (70%). The evaluated Orders may not pose risks for commercial poultry production. Habitat loss and urban adaptation may be increasingly affecting raptors.(AU)

PARÂMETROS HEMATOLÓGICOS, BIOQUÍMICOS E PESQUISA DE CEPAS PRODUTORAS DE ESBL E CARBAPENEMASES EM AVES DE RAPINA EM CATIVEIRO NO BRASIL

O Brasil é detentor de extraordinária biodiversidade e das 1901 espécies de aves reconhecidas como de ocorrência no país, 5% são aves de rapina. Os rapinantes são um grupo de aves carnívoras classificadas em quatro ordens: Accipitriformes, Strigiformes, Falconiformes e Cathartiformes. O Brasil, reunido aos outros países da região neotropical, concentra o maior número de espécies de rapinantes do mundo. Os valores de referência são a base para interpretação da saúde do paciente e a comparação com dados de populações saudáveis pode prover informações valiosas para o diagnóstico e prognóstico clínico. Contudo, os estudos acerca de parâmetros sanitários das aves de rapina são escassos no Brasil. O presente estudo foi dividido em três capítulos. O Capítulo 1 teve como objetivo estabelecer intervalos de referência e valores de média e desvio-padrão para parâmetros hematológicos e de proteínas plasmáticas totais, bem como a pesquisa de hemoparasitos em aves de rapina saudáveis cativas no Brasil. O Capítulo 2 objetivou determinar os intervalos de referência e valores de média e desvio-padrão para parâmetros bioquímicos de aves de rapina saudáveis no Brasil. Ambos os capítulos também visaram comparar os resultados entre os sexos de Megascops sp., Asio clamator, Tyto furcata e Caracara plancus. No Capítulo 3 o estudo realizado consistiu em pesquisar a presença de cepas produtoras de betalactamases de espectro estendido (ESBL) e carbapenemases em isolados de Escherichia coli e Salmonella spp feitos a partir de 44 suabes cloacais de aves de rapina no Brasil. Foram obtidos dados hematológicos para 178 rapinantes saudáveis de 28 espécies de ocorrência no Brasil. Em relação aos parâmetros bioquímicos, foram obtidos dados relativos a 167 aves de rapina de 27 espécies. Foram isoladas 31 cepas de E. coli e uma de Salmonella sp. das 44 amostras coletadas. Destas, somente uma cepa de E. coli apresentou produção de ESBL. Nenhuma cepa demonstrou resistência aos carbapenêmicos. Os resultados possibilitaram a produção de um amplo banco de dados de parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos que pode auxiliar no diagnóstico e prognóstico dos rapinantes atendidos no Brasil. Além disso, este estudo demonstrou a importância da pesquisa acerca da resistência aos antimicrobianos nas aves silvestres, um assunto de especial mérito por envolver, além da saúde animal, a saúde pública.

Brazil has an extraordinary biodiversity and among the 1901 birds species recognized as occurring in the country, 5% are raptors. Moreover, Brazil, among other countries of neotropical region, concentrates the highest number of raptor species in the world. The references values are the bases for the patients health interpretation and the comparison to h ealthy population can provide valuable information for diagnoses and clinic prognostic. However, studies about raptor sanitary parameters are scarce in Brazil. Raptors are carnivorous birds classified into four groups: Accipitriformes, Strigiformes, Falcon iformes and Cathartiformes. This study is divided in three chapters: Chapter 1 aims to establish reference intervals and mean and standard-deviation values for hematologic parameters, total plasmatic proteins and hemoparasites research for healthy captive raptors in Brazil. Chapter 2 aims to determinate references intervals and mean and standard-deviation values for biochemical parameters for healthy raptors in Brazil. Both chapters also aimed to compare the results between sexes of Megascops sp., Asio clamator, Tyto furcataand Caracara plancus. Chapter 3 researched the presence of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains and carbapenemase in isolated Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp made from 44 cloacal swabs from raptors in Brazil. 178 healthy raptors hematological data of 28 occurring species in Brazil were gathered. The biochemical data gathered are from 167 raptors of 27 species. 31 strains of E. coli and one of Salmonella sp. out of 44 samples were isolated. Of these, only one E. coli strain has shown ESBL production. None strain demonstrated carbapenemic resistance. The results allow a production of a broad data base of hematological and biochemical parameters that may help diagnose and prognostic of raptors attended in Brazil. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the importance of researches about antimicrobial resistance in wild birds a virtuous subject that involves not only the animal health but also the public health.

Bat predation by Barn Owls (Tyto alba) in central-eastern Argentina

We report the predation of bats by Barn owls (Tyto alba) in Entre Ríos province (~33.2º S-33.7º S), central-eastern Argentina. We studied pellet samples from 87 localities, registering 12 species of bats of two families. The best-represented taxa in the samples were the molossids Tadarida brasiliensis (40.7%), Molossus molossus (8.7%), the vespertilionids Myotis spp. (19.67%) and Eptesicus furinalis (9.2%). Molossops temminckii was documented for the first time in the province. The average weight of bats consumed by Barn Owl ranged from ~4 g (Myotis spp.) to ~68 g (Eumops perotis). In terms of frequency, bats represented between 0.04 and 5.11% of the owls diet. Our results, together with literature records, suggest that bats tend to be captured more regularly in tropical to subtropical areas than in temperate to cold ones, and that they represent a minor item in the diet of Barn Owls.

Bat predation by Barn Owls (Tyto alba) in central-eastern Argentina

We report the predation of bats by Barn owls (Tyto alba) in Entre Ríos province (~33.2º S-33.7º S), central-eastern Argentina. We studied pellet samples from 87 localities, registering 12 species of bats of two families. The best-represented taxa in the samples were the molossids Tadarida brasiliensis (40.7%), Molossus molossus (8.7%), the vespertilionids Myotis spp. (19.67%) and Eptesicus furinalis (9.2%). Molossops temminckii was documented for the first time in the province. The average weight of bats consumed by Barn Owl ranged from ~4 g (Myotis spp.) to ~68 g (Eumops perotis). In terms of frequency, bats represented between 0.04 and 5.11% of the owls diet. Our results, together with literature records, suggest that bats tend to be captured more regularly in tropical to subtropical areas than in temperate to cold ones, and that they represent a minor item in the diet of Barn Owls.(AU)

Hematologia, pesquisa de hemoparasitos e mensuração da atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas em Falconiformes e Strigiformes do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil / Hematology, survey for hemoparasites and measurement of plasmatic cholinesterases activity of Falconiformes and Strigiformes of São Paulo State, Brazil

Foram coletadas 137 amostras sanguíneas de 132 espécimes diferentes, pertencentes a sete espécies de Strigiformes (n=92) e onze espécies de Falconiformes (n=45), entre os meses de setembro de 2008 e julho de 2009. As amostras foram submetidas a hemograma completo, pesquisa de hemoparasitos através da avaliação do esfregaço sanguíneo, sexagem através da técnica de PCR e mensuração da atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas através do método de Ellman (1961). Apenas sete corujinhas-do-mato (Megascops choliba) apresentaram hemoparasitos (5,3 % do total de rapinantes). Houve diferença significativa conforme o estado de saúde da ave, sendo que a todos os animais clinicamente hígidos não estavam infectados, porém 20,4% dos animais com desordens clínicas apresentavam hemosporídeos. Quantitativamente, a parasitemia mediana dos animais infectados foi de 3,8 hemácias parasitadas por 10.000 hemácias, um índice de infecção relativamente baixo. A grande maioria dos parâmetros hematológicos não apresentou diferenças estatísticas em função da presença ou ausência de hemoparasitos, o que na maioria dos casos caracterizou uma infecção branda e pouco patogênica. A atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas apresentou uma distribuição normal, com uma média geométrica de 0,8333 micromoles/mL e desvio padrão geométrico de 1,7087 µmols/mL. A atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas apresentou diferenças estatísticas significativas entre Falconiformes (0,5705±1,6497 µmols/mL) e Strigiformes (1,0070±1,5620 µmols/mL). Não houve diferenças significativas entre machos ou fêmeas e adultos ou jovens dentre os Falconiformes ou Strigiformes. Falconiformes não hígidos apresentaram valores surpreendentemente mais baixos do que os clinicamente hígidos. Entre os Strigiformes, os espécimes de cativeiro apresentaram valores mais baixos de atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas do que os de vida livre. A atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas foi significativamente diferente entre os animais com hemoparasitos (mediana geométrica = 2,0132 µmols/mL) e sem hemoparasitos (mediana geométrica = 0,8331 µmols/mL). Este estudo contribui com informações relevantes sobre a ocorrência de hemosporídeos em aves de rapina do Estado de São Paulo, alertando as Instituições sobre a necessidade de monitoração destes protozoários sanguíneos. Além disso, contribui com dados inéditos sobre a atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas em rapinantes

137 blood samples were collected from 132 different specimen, belonging to seven species of Strigiformes (n=92) and eleven species of Falconiformes (n=45), from September 2008 to July 2009. Samples were submitted to complete hemogram, survey for hemoparasites through evaluation of blood smears, sex identification by PCR and measurement of plasmatic cholinesterases by the method of Ellman (1961). Only seven black-capped-screech-owls (Megascops choliba) were positive for hemoparasites (5,3% of total raptors). There were significative difference according to avian health status; all the clinicaly higid animal were not infected, but 20,4% of animals with clinical desorders presented haemosporidians. Quantitatively, the average parasitemia was 3,8 parasited erythrocytes in 10.000 erythrocytes, a infection rate relatively low. The most of hematologic parameters did not present statistic differences in function of presence or absence of hemoparasites, what in most of the cases characterized a low and not much pathogenic infection. The plasmatic cholinesterase activity presented normal distribution, with geometric average of 0,8333 micromoles/mL and geometric standard deviation of 1,7087 µmols/mL. The plasmatic cholinesterase activity presented statistic differences between Falconiformes (0,5705±1,6497 µmols/mL) and Strigiformes (1,0070±1,5620 µmols/mL). There were not significative differences between males of females and adults or youngs between Falconiformes or Strigiformes. Non-higid Falconiformes presented surprisiling much low values than those clinically higid. Between Strigiformes, the captivity specimens present much lower plasmatic cholinesterase activity values than free ranging animals. The plasmatic cholinesterase activity was signifactively different among animal with hemoparasites (geometric average = 2,0132 µmols/mL) and without hemoparasites (geometric average = 0,8331 µmols/mL). This research contributes with relevant information about the haemosporidian occurence in raptors of State of São Paulo, alerting the Institutions about the necessity of monitorizing haemoprotozoa. Besides that, contributes with unpublished data about the plasmatic cholinesterase activity in raptors