Identification of bacterial species in white stork chicks in Poland using PCR method and sequencing of bacterial 16SrRNA

The aim of this study was to identify the most common bacteria that may be found in the blood or on the feathers of white stork (Ciconia ciconia) chicks and predict their pathogenic potential for birds and humans. A variety of microorganisms, which include Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus vitulinus, and Pseudomonas sp. were found. Based on breeding population densities and reproductive success over the past 25 years, we found no apparent effects of bacterial infections on the white stork population in Poland.