The rapid spread of a mosquito-borne disease in Britain has raised concerns about the impact on blackbirds, one of the UK’s most common birds known for their cheerful song. Scientists are racing to understand the risks posed by the Usutu virus which can be transmitted to blackbirds through infected mosquitoes. Over the past five years, data has shown that the virus has spread across much of southern England and has been linked to declines in local blackbird populations.
According to Dr. Arran Folly of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), the unexpected spread of the Usutu virus beyond initial projections is a cause for concern. The virus has taken a toll on blackbird populations, especially in Greater London where a 40% decline has been observed since 2020. Researchers are closely monitoring the situation and highlighting the potential for other mosquito-borne viruses to emerge in the UK in the future.
The spread of diseases like Usutu is exacerbated by climate change, which is creating favorable conditions for mosquitoes to thrive in regions where they were previously uncommon. The Usutu virus was first detected in the UK in 2020 after a heatwave, leading to further investigations into its prevalence in wild bird populations. While the exact risk posed by Usutu remains uncertain, ongoing research efforts aim to shed light on the impact it may have on blackbirds and other susceptible species.
To gather more data on blackbird numbers and better understand their behavior, scientists have partnered with the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) to enlist the help of volunteers. By counting blackbirds in gardens across the country, researchers hope to gain insights into the movements and populations of these iconic birds. Individuals like Lucy Love, a garden birdwatch ambassador for the BTO, emphasize the importance of preserving blackbird populations, noting their vital role in the ecosystem and their unique beauty and song
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