Relationships between the Spread of Pathogens and the Migratory Connectivity of European Wild Birds

Abstract

Among emerging infectious diseases, 75 % are zoonotic. Migratory birds are important to public health because they carry emerging zoonotic pathogens or infected arthropod vectors. Disease is an important factor in the evolution of avian migrations and patterns of migratory connectivity. Research suggests that pathogen densities and diseases may influence the evolution of migratory behaviour. During the annual life cycle, European migratory birds spend: 2 - 4 months at the breeding locality, approximately 6 months on the wintering grounds, and several months (3 and more) on migration routes. There are many factors which determine when and where an outbreak of a disease may occur. Therefore, a complete understanding of the avian migratory systems has a high priority in the prevention of future outbreaks.