Occurrence of Trichomonas gallinae in the European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur) along its Western Migratory Route.

Trichomonas gallinae is a globally distributed parasite, commonly infecting columbiform species, with the potential to limit population growth. Concerns have arisen regarding its impact across Europe on the declining European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur) population over the last two decades. This study evaluated the prevalence of T. gallinae in European Turtle Doves in various areas of the southern portion of their western flyway, spanning Spain and Morocco, to understand its potential impact on the species' population dynamics. We sampled 121 doves from May to August 2023, with 55.4% testing positive for T. gallinae through PCR analysis. Prevalence varied regionally, with the highest rates observed in Rehamna province, Morocco (73.1%) and the lowest in Catalonia, Spain (37.5%). Despite high infection rates, no clinical signs of trichomoniasis were detected, suggesting a subclinical nature of the infection and consistent with previous findings in wild birds. These results highlight the potential role of the western migratory route in the transmission and geographical dispersion of T. gallinae and suggest that the parasite's presence in European Turtle Dove populations warrants further investigation. The study emphasizes the need for continued monitoring and research into the effects of T. gallinae on breeding success and population health, particularly considering the significant decline in European Turtle Dove populations.