Wildlife

Wild Avian Malaria and Songbird Welfare

Avian malaria affects many UK bird species and is spread by mosquitoes, with climate change potentially expanding its range.

Key Facts

Avian malaria is caused by Plasmodium species transmitted by Culicoides and Culex mosquitoes
It causes anaemia, organ damage, and death in naive populations
Åland Islands research has linked climate warming to increased avian malaria transmission
House sparrows in the UK have documented malaria infections
Migratory birds face malaria exposure in tropical wintering areas

Welfare Considerations

Birds suffering from avian malaria experience chronic debilitation affecting their ability to survive, migrate, and reproduce. Climate-driven expansion of mosquito ranges may bring avian malaria to populations with no prior exposure and little resistance. This is an emerging welfare threat requiring surveillance and research.

What You Can Do

Support climate action reducing conditions favouring mosquito spread
Donate to ornithological research studying avian malaria impacts
Join bird health monitoring programmes reporting sick birds