The role of migratory birds and their ectoparasites in the spread of entomopathogenic microorganisms

The article presents the results of microbiological analysis of various organs of migratory birds in order to identify the presence of entomogenic bacteria of the Bacillus thuringiensis group. Migrating wild birds and their ectoparasites can contribute to the dispersal of various microorganisms, including entomopathogens, over long distances on a global scale. As a result of the conducted studies, 12 strains of entomopathogenic bacilli were identified as part of the microbiocenosis of the studied wild birds and their ectoparasites. It is shown that migratory birds and their down-eaters (Mallophaga) play an essential role in the transcontinental spread of entomopathogenic microorganisms.