Detection and Importance of Some Pathogenic Bacteria in Psittascine Birds with Special Reference to the Virulence Genes

Psittascine birds are potential carriers and/or transmitters of some pathogenic bacteria, which have an important impact on human health. The scope of this study was to survey, isolate and identify some pathogenic bacteria in psittascine birds with special regard to plasmid detection of some virulent and resistance genes. A total of 120 samples (85 from different birds, 35 samples from their surrounding) were collected for microbiological investigations. All isolates were submitted to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and discussed in details. E. coliwas the predominant isolate in all examined birds (34.11%) followed by Staphylococcus spp < em>. (32.9%) and Salmonella spp < em>. (12.9%). E. coliof O78 was the most prevalent serotype detected in all samples also; Salmonella Typhymurium was the most frequent serovar in all recovered Salmonella spp. isolates. Plasmid detection of crl and eaeAvirulence genes of E. coliisolates were found in (100% and 33.3%, respectively). Also, all examinedisolates of Salmonella spp < em>. and Staphylococcus spp < em>. showed the presence of (invA, stn and fimH) and (clfAand icaA) virulence genes in (100%, for each), respectively. Meanwhile, screening for antibiotic resistance genes (dfrA, tetA, blaTEM, qnrA, norA and blaZ) of E. coli, Salmonella spp < em>. and Staphylococcus spp., respectivelywere detected on all relative plasmid profiles (100%, for each). In conclusion, several bacterial pathogens were isolated from psittascine birds so, it is recommended to apply good biosecurity management and good hygiene with competent and quality veterinary care in birds/ pets breeding, with preventive guidelines. Also, due to the zoonotic nature of some bacteria, it is very important that pet bird owners should be trained well to practice good hygiene when handling / breeding their pets to limit the risk of zoonotic diseases.