Prevalence and genetic diversity of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in raptors from Thailand: Data from rehabilitation center

The diurnal raptors (Family: Accipitridae and Falconidae) are important as ecosystem bioindicators. Unfortunately, the global number of these birds has fallen, and they are close to extinction. This study reports the molecular prevalence and genetic diversity of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in raptors admitted to the Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit over a period of 6 years. A total of 198 raptors, including 22 species from 30 provinces in Thailand, were admitted. The prevalence of parasites in raptors was low: Haemoproteus was 4.04% (95% CI: 1.29–6.78), and Plasmodium 2.53% (95% CI: 0.34–4.71). Eleven lineages of haemosporidian parasites were identified, and four lineages (ACCBAD02, NISALB01, NISALB02, and AEGMO03) are new globally. Interestingly, six lineages were isolated from birds belonging to the Accipitridae and Falconidae families (TYTAL4, TYTAL6, GLACUC08, MILANS06, OTUSCO02, and ORW1), indicating host shift of these parasites. Furthermore, the low prevalence of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in raptors compared with that in previous reports suggests a relationship between the activity of avian hosts and vectors. This information is valuable for application in raptor rehabilitation and further research.