The researcher Izabella Rzad of the Bird Migration Research Foundation of the Polish University of Szczecin has just completed the first part of an important parasite study found in 121 wood pigeons collected in Italy. The collaboration of the members of the Italian Wood Pigeon Club, specifically those residing in Emilia Romagna, Tuscany, Umbria e Marche.
The analysis took place during the last migratory season and is probably the first parasitological research on migrating birds in our country. What exactly emerged? 20% of the specimens tested positive for the presence of various parasites, mainly not harmful to humans. The Polish university will now continue the identification for more details on the matter. Among other things, a surprising fact has emerged. It was found that the parasites were mainly present in the wood pigeons collected in the entry areas for incoming migration rather than in those of subsequent transit.
The explanation could lie in the fact that sea crossings affect the life of parasites, drastically decreasing their incidence. The case could be that of wood pigeons landed and captured in the first part of the migration (in Emilia and Marche) and then wormed in the continuation of the same. The hypothesis will be deepened in the next autumn, perhaps with differentiated collections as regards migrants e wintering.