Activity and predator escape performance of Common Greenfinches Carduelis chloris infected with Sindbis virus

摘要: The fitness effects of parasites on their hosts are often unknown. For most avian viruses, no records clinical disease have been associated with infections. In this study we tested if birds would alter behaviour during an infection virus that naturally occurs in passerines. We measured spontaneous locomotion activity and take-off performance Common Greenfinches Carduelis chloris at the peak Sindbis (Togaviridae, Alphavirus). found virus-treated had lower than saline-treated third day after injection. When exposed to a simulated predator attack, reduced speed from before treatment, whereas did opposite. This difference between treatments change flight treatment was only detected evenings, when were heavy. Furthermore, increased body mass Our results suggest is accompanied by energetic or pathological costs, infected accounted for these cost reducing while increasing energy intake. Down-regulating important behaviours such as may implications chances survival birds.