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Chlamydiosis in captive raptors
M E Fowler1, T Schulz, A Ardans
1Department of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
Avian Diseases
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Chlamydia psittaci, a bacteria, was found in red-tailed hawks and other raptors at a California center. This indicates the pathogen is widespread among captive raptor populations.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Avian Pathology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Chlamydia psittaci is an important avian pathogen.
- Raptors in rehabilitation centers may be at risk of infection.
- Understanding the prevalence of C. psittaci in captive raptors is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Chlamydia psittaci in captive raptors at a California rehabilitation center.
- To assess the utility of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for diagnosing C. psittaci infections in raptors.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of C. psittaci via cloacal culture from deceased and surviving red-tailed hawks.
- Serological testing using ELISA on captive raptors (14 species).
- Repeat ELISA testing on a subset of raptors two years later to assess disease persistence.
Main Results:
- C. psittaci was isolated from both deceased and surviving red-tailed hawks, as well as clinically normal birds.
- Initial ELISA testing showed 44% of raptors were positive and 19% suspect for C. psittaci.
- Follow-up ELISA testing indicated a high prevalence (41% positive, 35% suspect), suggesting endemicity.
Conclusions:
- Chlamydia psittaci is endemic in the studied captive raptor population.
- ELISA is a valuable tool for screening raptors for C. psittaci.
- The findings highlight the need for ongoing surveillance and control measures for C. psittaci in raptor rehabilitation centers.