CRYPTOSPORIDIUM SPP. INFECTIONIN THE GREAT TIT (PARUS MAJOR) AND THE BLUE TIT (CYANISTES CAERULEUS) IN THE IZMAYLOVO NATURAL-HISTORIC PARK (MOSCOW, RUSSIA)

The family Paridae species, such as the great tit (Parus major) and the blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) are common synanthropic birds. They are frequently found in yards of residential buildings, squares, gardens, parks, and forests. Humans often get in contact with these birds, especially due to abundance of manmade bird feeders. Apart from the fact that these feeders are often located in close proximity of human settlements, they also attract other avian species. Thus, we can talk about foci of various parasitic diseases that form at sites of permanent feeders. One of such diseases may possibly be cryptosporidiosis caused by sporozoans of the genus Cryptosporidium. This research investigates such bird feeders as potential cryptosporidiosis foci and tits as its possible vectors. Samples were collected, and studies were conducted on the above-mentioned protozoa in these two specified species inhabiting the Izmaylovo Natural-Historic Park (Moscow, Russia), where they fly for feeding to artificially organized bird feeders. Based on the research, we made conclusions about the role of synanthropic Paridae in forming cryptosporidium invasion sources.