Quantification and characterisation of commensal wild birds and their interactions with domestic ducks on a free-range farm in southwest France.

ABSTRACT: The role of commensal birds in the epidemiology of pathogens in poultry farms remains unclear. Our study aimed to identify potential key species for interactions with domestic ducks on one free-range duck farm in southwest France. Methods combined direct individual observations on duck outdoor foraging areas, network analysis, and general linear mixed models of abundances. Results showed a wide diversity of wild bird species visiting foraging areas, heavily dominated in frequency by White wagtails (Motacilla alba) and Sparrows (Passer domesticus and Passer montanus). These also were the only species seen entering duck premises or perching on drinkers in the presence of ducks. Moreover, White wagtails were the species most frequently observed on the ground and in close proximity to ducks. N

SUBMITTER: Le Gall-Ladeveze C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9192735 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature