ARS | Publication request: The impact of wild birds and farm management on Campylobacter and Salmonella in small ruminants

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: April 1, 2011
Publication Date: April 13, 2011
Citation: Hagens, B., Jurgen, S., Nikki, W., Wilson, M., Luchansky, J.B., S., W., C., K., M., E., Steven, P. 2011. The impact of wild birds and farm management on Campylobacter and Salmonella in small ruminants. Association of Research Directors.,1890 Research Sustainable Solutions for Current and Emerging Issues, Atlanta, Georgia, April 9-13, 2011., Poster #P-FS-G-9, Pgs.75-76.

Technical Abstract: This study was designed to evaluate the potential pathways and control of foodborne pathogen transmission between wild-birds and farm animals. At two farms, a total of 14 one-acre pastures were fenced to each host 12 sheep and 12 goats. For the control group, pastures were set-up with open water tubs and grain pans to feed animals and attract wild birds. In contrast, the treatment group used nipple-waterers and custom feed pans. Fecal and water samples were taken every two weeks in May-June and October-November for two years. The samples were analyzed for the presence of Salmonella and Campylobacter using selective plating, immunoassays, and/or biochemical confirmation techniques. From small ruminants and captured wild birds, respectively, 2880 and 440 fecal samples were collected for pathogen detection. Campylobacter spp. were found in 5.0 and 8.2% of the fecal samples from small ruminants and wild birds, respectively. C. jejuni was isolated from 86 and 97% of corresponding positive samples. Salmonella spp. were only found in 0.9% of feces from small ruminants and 0.2% of wild birds. However, the pathogens were not found in any water samples. Although wild birds seem to be more attracted to the feeding areas in some pastures with open water tubs and grain pans in autumn, there was no significant difference in pathogen prevalence between control and treatment animal groups when analyzed by season or location. Pathogens isolated during this study were preserved for further characterization and evaluation.