Bird deaths reveal the spread of Newcastle virus in the Azores

Newcastle virus is now present on six Azorean islands, a situation made apparent by the discovery of hundreds of dead birds. Rock pigeons and Eurasian collared doves are among the species affected.

The disease has been spreading through the archipelago, and its known geographic reach underlines the need to follow the development of cases. Reported deaths involve large numbers of these urban and wild bird species.

Domestic birds may also be exposed to infection. That possibility makes the issue relevant to people who keep birds and calls for attention to how the virus may move between species.

In the Azores, where urban areas, agricultural holdings and natural habitats are often close together, monitoring this occurrence matters for understanding its effects on birdlife. Its presence on six islands shows that the issue is not confined to a single location.