Identification of ectoparasites in budgerigars (melopsittacus undulatus) and their associated risk factors in three selected zoos in Malaysia

An abstract of the research paper presented to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Malaysia Kelantan, in partial requirement of the course DVT 55204 - Research Project.
Ectoparasitic infestation is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in captive bird populations, yet limited research has been conducted on the ectoparasites affecting budgerigars in Malaysia. This study was conducted to determine the presence of ectoparasite infestation, identify the genera present and assess the associated risk factors among budgerigars in three zoos in Malaysia. A total of 50 budgerigars were sampled randomly via feather plucking and acetate tape methods. The ectoparasites identified were examined under an Olympus CX21FS1 microscope for identification using the available taxonomic keys and reported morphological features. The result showed a 100% detection percentage, with all 50 budgerigars testing positive for feather mites that were tentatively identified as Kramerella spp., Eustathia spp., Analges spp., Proctophyllodes spp., Sokoloviana spp., Ptiloxenoides spp., Syringophilus spp., Pandionacarus spp., Ardeacarus spp., Pelargolichus spp., and Fainalges spp. No lice or ticks were identified. Findings were presented descriptively as the statistical association could not be determined between the infestation status and risk factors. The universal presence of ectoparasites was due to their ability to survive long-term on birds, spread widely within zoo settings, and survive on fallen feathers. Advanced molecular analysis is required for further identification of the mites down to the species level. More extensive screening of the budgerigars is needed to fully assess the risk factors and zoonotic potential associated with the presence of the feather mites.