West Nile Virus and the birds of prey from Romania, a new approach on the biodiversity conservation

Abstract

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus with a zoonotic character that affects a wide range of bird species, including birds of prey such as hawks, eagles, and owls. Birds are the primary reservoir for WNV, and birds of prey are particularly vulnerable due to their predatory behavior, which may expose them to infected prey species like songbirds or other small animals that carry the virus. In birds of prey, the clinical manifestations of WNV infection can vary from mild or asymptomatic to severe, with symptoms such as weakness, disorientation, inability to fly, and neurological deficits. Some birds may succumb to the infection, especially juvenile or immunocompromised individuals, while others may recover. The susceptibility to WNV makes them useful for monitoring the spread of the virus across regions. However, they do not typically serve as major amplifiers of the virus, compared to some passerine birds, which tend to have higher viremia levels. The spread of WNV among birds of prey raises ecological and conservation concerns, particularly for endangered or vulnerable raptor species. Monitoring WNV outbreaks and managing mosquito populations in wildlife rehabilitation centers and conservation areas are critical strategies to reduce the impact of the virus on raptor populations. Additionally, studying the virus’s effects on these predators provides insight into broader ecosystem health. The study aims to analyze the current situation and findings regarding WNV infection in birds of prey in Romania.