Infestation of ectoparasites (Siphonaptera, Cimicidae, Mesostigmata) in nests of swallows (Hirundinidae) in Lithuania

Abstract

We report results of the first study to investigate the distribution and diversity of various ectoparasites in nests of swallows from Lithuania. Swallows is migratory birds and lives in colonies where ectoparasites and diseases can quickly be transmitted. Various ectoparasites occurring in nests of swallow can influence condition and development of swallows. At the same time, huge infestation of ectoparasites 124 can do lower the reproductive success of their hosts, even can cause birds mortality. Also ectoparasites of swallow nests can transmit pathogens among different individuals or other group members. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of ectoparasites (fleas, bugs, mites) infestations in nests of swallows (Hirundinidae) in Lithuania. Materials and Methods. During 2014 vacated swallow nests from 6 colonies were collected from two districts in Lithuania (Kaunas district, Klaipeda district). A total 32 nests of Barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) and 11 nests of House martin (Delichon urbica) were collected. Nests were placed in plastic bags end examined in laboratory. Three thousands seven hundreds seventy ectoparasites were collected and preserved in tubes with 70% ethanol. Ectoparasites species were identified under a light microscope following morphological keys. Different indices were calculated to evaluate infestation level, distribution and species diversity of ectoparasites. Results: In 24 nests of swallows 2283 fleas (Siphonaptera), 1343 bugs (Cimicidae) and 144 mites (Mesostigmata) were found. A total 7 flea species (Ceratophyllus farreni, C. styx, C. gallinae, C. hirundinis, C. rusticus, C. affinis, C. sciurorum), one bug species (Oeciacus hirundinis) and Mesostigmata mites were identified. Conclusions: For the first time in Lithuania, infestation of ectoparasites from nests of swallows were investigated. Biodiversity of ectoparasites in nests of Barn swallow was higher then in nests of House martin.