HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF FREE-RANGING PSITTACINE BIRDS IN GUATEMALA AND BELIZE

Efforts of WCS- Program for Guatemala, Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic and Belize Bird Rescue, contributed significantly to the protection and conservation of free-ranging parrots. To assess the health status of two populations of Scarlet macaw (Ara macao cyanoptera) in Guatemala and Belize, and Yellow-headed amazon (Amazona oratrix belizensis) in Belize, blood samples were collected from 45 youngsters and 5 adults, from 2012 to 2015. Feces were collected from 7 youngsters Yellow-headed amazon and 14 Scarlet Macaws from Belize in 2015. On blood samples, PCR were carried out on APV, PBFD, PDV and Chlamydia psittaci. ELISA for detecting Antibodies Antigangliosides, related to PDD, and ELISA for detecting serum antibodies against P40 Avian Bornavirus nucleoprotein were carried out. Feces were examined for parasites by flotation test using a low density solution. On PCR and ELISA, birds tested negatively. Feces tested negative for endoparasites. These are the first data on the health status of free-ranging Psittacine birds in Guatemala and Belize. Birds are free of tested antigens but we will continue the monitoring and research to increase the chances of survival of this endangered species.