Dahbia Oussada, Noura Talmat-Chaouchi, Kamal Hachour, Faiza Marniche

Ectoparasite diversity and zoonotic risks in urban birds of Tizi Ouzou

Abstract
Increasing urbanization in Algeria, particularly pronounced in northern regions such as Tizi Ouzou, is profoundly altering ecosystems and interactions between species. This study aims to characterize the diversity and dynamics of avian ectoparasites in urban environments through the examination of three model species: the Rock Dove (Columba livia), the Yellow-legged Gull (Larus michahellis) and the Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis). Sampling was carried out using captured individuals and nests collected from urban habitats. The results show that Mallophaga lice (Columbicola columbae, Companulotes compar) are strictly associated with pigeon, with an abundance of 52.90%. Conversely, nidicolous mites (Dermanyssus gallinae and Ornithonyssus maritimus) are concentrated in the nests of pigeons and Yellow-legged Gulls at rates of 15.86% and 9.30%, respectively. Cattle Egrets show lower and more sporadic infestations. Furthermore, the three bird species host significantly distinct parasite communities despite sharing parts of their habitat. Finally, the presence of the soft tick Argas persicus (0.38%), a known zoonotic vector, underscores the health significance of these results.


Doi https://doi.org/10.35513/21658005.2026.1.7

Keywords Avian parasitology; urbanization; Columba Livia; Larus michahellis; Bubulcus ibis; public health; Tizi Ouzou

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