# Molecular analysis of blood-associated pathogens in common ravens (Corvus corax) from Germany

## TL;DR

This study found that a significant portion of common ravens in Germany are infected with various blood parasites, highlighting the need for further research on these infections.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the prevalence and diversity of blood parasites in common ravens in Germany using molecular techniques.

## Key findings

- 26.2% of common ravens were PCR-positive for at least one blood parasite.
- Filarioid nematodes showed the highest prevalence at 16.7%.
- Four Leucocytozoon CytB lineages and one Haemoproteus lineage were identified.

## Abstract

Common ravens (Corvus corax) are intelligent scavengers that adapt to diverse environments, playing a key ecological role, but their health and ecosystem contributions can be affected by parasites. This study investigates the prevalence and diversity of blood parasite infections in common ravens using molecular techniques. Blood samples (n = 42) were collected from dead common ravens in Germany and screened for filarioid nematodes, trypanosomatids, and haemosporidian parasites. The results showed that 26.2% of the common ravens were PCR-positive for at least one parasite, with some cases of mixed infections. Filarioid nematodes were found in 16.7%, trypanosomatids in 4.8%, and haemosporidian parasites in 16.7% of the common ravens. Sequencing revealed the presence of four Leucocytozoon CytB lineages and one Haemoproteus lineage. The findings suggest that common ravens in Germany are often infected with diverse avian blood parasites, with a higher prevalence of filarioid nematodes. Further research is needed to confirm the circulation of these parasites in the common raven population and to identify the specific filarioid nematode species present in Germany.