Species and seasonality can affect recent trends in beak and feather disease virus prevalence in captive psittacine birds.

ABSTRACT

Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is globally distributed in psittacine birds. BFDV is considered a key threat to biodiversity because it has the ability to transmit and shift between host species. Data from captive psittacine birds can help to identify potential risk factors for viral transmission management. Generalized Linear Models (GLM) were used to examine the association of sample type, species, and season on the prevalence of BFDV in captive exotic birds in Thailand. In this study, the overall prevalence of BFDV was 8.2 %, with 346 of 4243 birds being positive. The prevalence in feather samples (12.1 %) and pooled (dried blood and feather) samples (15.4 %) was higher than that in the dried blood samples (4.8 %). A GLM test revealed that the sample type, species, and season were significant factors influencing the prevalence of BFDV. Based on the model, two species (blue-eyed cockatoo; Cacatua ophthalmica, and ring-necked parakeet; Psittacula krameri) were associated with higher BFDV prevalence. By studying the seasonal BFDV prevalence, we can gather important insights into the environmental factors that contribute to its spread. The higher prevalence observed during the wet season suggest a possible affect between BFDV prevalence and environmental factors such as heavy rainfall and humidity. In conclusion, our analysis of the trends in BFDV prevalence offers valuable insights into the prevalence or distribution of BFDV in the studied population. By monitoring BFDV prevalence, identifying high-risk species, and understanding seasonal patterns, we can develop targeted management approaches to control the spread of the virus. This information is crucial for mitigating the impact of BFDV on aviculture.