Preliminary surveillance for beak and feather disease virus in wild parrots of New Caledonia: implications of a reservoir species for Ouvea Parakeets

摘要: Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is a recognised key threat for the conservation of parrots globally, causing morbidity mortality individuals in susceptible species. We present findings from survey 2012 to investigate presence BFDV wild New Caledonian parrots, including endangered Ouvea Parakeet (Eunymphicus uvaeensis). Blood samples seven Parakeets 13 Rainbow Lorikeets (Trichoglossus haematodus deplanchii), feathers 15 Lorikeets, five Horned cornutus) six (Cyanoramphus saisseti) obtained passive sampling, were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) BFDV. identified prevalence 25% (95% CI 11–45%) suggesting this species may act as reservoir persistence wild, placing other Caledonia at risk. All parrot negative introduced Island 1970s, potentially bringing with them. As are restricted small island, we strongly recommend surveillance screening guide future biosecurity efforts, further understand risk posed threatened parrots.