11.04.2007

Explanation of the reasons of death of the white stork nestlings

Mr. Philipp Weps of the Institute for Animal Pathology of the Free University of Berlin will investigate the aspergillosis over the coming to years.

The goal of this study is to get an overview of the reasons of death, and in particular of the existing etiologic agent and through this to assess the level of danger to this
bird species. Over the past years, aspergillosis (a fungus infection mainly of the breathing tract)played a significant role.

In many cases the whole brood died. In the study, died off eggs, dead chicks and deceased old storks extensive bacteriological, virological, mycological and pathological examinations will be performed to isolate the causative organism. In addition, while banding, blood and swab samples will be collected from the nestlings. Furthermore, nest material, and if possible, potential nest material from the eyrie surroundings will be included during the examinations. This opens the possibility to present connections to the occurrence of an organism and to eliminate proven sources of danger.

For this study we need the active participation of stork attendants and "Stork Parents". Please help!

Preferably, all died off eggs, dead chicks and deceased old birds are to be included in the study to be able to arrive at a result based on scientific evidence.

Please, notify us of deceased animals and died-off eggs. They can be picked up, however, they may be delivered by you.

Contact address:
Philipp Weps (Veterinarian)
Institut für Tierpathologie der Freien Universität Berlin
Robert-von-Ostertag-Straße 15
D 14163 Berlin
Telephone: 49 030-838-62459
Cell Phone (including weekends): 0179-5208749
E-Mail: weps.philipp@vetmed.fu-berlin.de

Further information you will find on the attached shipment form

Winfried Boehmer
NABU-Project Leader

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