A Review of the Literature on the Effects of Parasites on Zoo Birds in Captivity

Abstract

Large populations of captive wild birds are exposed to many parasitic diseases, infectious diseases which are a major concern in conservation of endangered species as well as of public health concern. They can lead to mortality, dramatic population declines, and even contribute to local extinction events in the place of conservation. It would be of great benefit if more studies are channeled at this area to provide more insight and guide on how to manage such a challenge. The endoparasite load preference was highest incarnivorous and herbivorous birds, while the ectoparasites load was very high in omnivorebirds. The predilection site highly infested by ectoparasites was the head region, while the intestine was mostly infected by endoparasites. Seaonality influences the composition and distribution of parasites. Therefore, the likelihood of the occurrence of disease outbreak for birds in captivity is predictable. Hence, the current knowledge of the impact of parasites in captive birds rather than in wild birds was reviewed based on their biology and load in birds in relation to feeding guilds, predilection sites and seasonality that may help in effective management practices.