Indagine sullo stato sanitario dell'avifauna selvatica in Sardegna

Several wildlife species are present in Sardinia, including many resident endemic populations (related to insularity condition), but also migratory species of birds (as the island is an important stopover point in international migratory routes).Wildlife is important in terms of biodiversity, and despite international programs for endangered species, its management and conservation are problematic due to several risk factors (eg. habitat loss and degradation, pollution, poaching). Furthermore, wildlife is also a main topic in public health as involved in transmission of emerging diseases, that are mostly of animal origin.In this study we investigated about the sanitary status of Sardinian wild birds, especially birds of prey, in order to recognize main diseases and potential zoonoses. 61 birds, from a south-west area of Sardinia island were submitted to necropsy, histological and biomolecular exams (PCR). Over 60% of animals showed traumatic lesions. Most important findings were gastric granulomas caused by parasites (nematodes) and skin masses, some induced by Avianpox virus. Main pathological results were elaborated using biometry, statistics and geolocation. Animals were find in general good condition, with well tolerated parasitic infestations. No zoonotic agents were detected, including West Nile Virus.Few studies are available about pathology of wild avifauna in Sardinia, so the main aim of this research was to get some preliminary data about its sanitary status.