The new study compiled information on the occurrence of over 75 pathogenic microbes across Europe from almost 400 bird- and 40 bat species. Combining data on occurrence with climatic factors revealed that the occurrence of most pathogens was associated with temperature or rainfall.
"In general, the occurrence of pathogenic bacteria increased in areas with a warm and dry climate. On the other hand, pathogenic viruses prefer moist climate", according to lead author Yanjie Xu from the Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki.
The association between climatic factors and pathogens could be investigated on the 17 pathogen taxa with most data. The observed associations varied.
Read more at: University of Helsinki
Blackbirds often have ticks and a small number of birds carry diseases such as Lyme disease. (Photo Credit: Aleksi Lehikoinen)