Abstract

Background:
In recent years, we have observed rapid dynamics in climate change and research in the field of parasitology has developed to a high level (such as new knowledge and diagnostic techniques). With regard to this, studying the taxonomy of rhinonyssids occupies the attention of many researchers worldwide.

Aim:
The purpose of the present study was to determine the degree of parasitism of Rhinonyssidae mites among birds in 10 European countries (Albania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye and Ukraine).

Methods:
The survey was conducted between January 1st 2023, and June 30th 2025 at the Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation. A total of 322 bird specimens belonging to 6 orders, 15 families, 19 genera, and 20 species were studied. The present research was mainly based on morphometric characteristics of the studied animal species.

Results:
Of all the birds examined, fifty-two specimens (16.1%) were parasitized by Rhinonyssidae. Parasite mites belonged to the genera Larinyssus, Mesonyssus, Ptilonyssus, Rallinyssus, Rhinoecius, Rhinonyssus and Sternostoma. We found that the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella) bird species is a new host for two rhinoyssid species: Ptilonyssus phylloscopi and Sternostoma batis.

Conclusion:
The current survey complemented and increased knowledge about Rhinonyssid mites among birds from Europe. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of Ptilonyssus phylloscopi and Sternostoma batis among birds (Emberiza citrinella) from Bulgaria. The results of present research may improve the control and prevention of the spread of certain parasites among animals in European countries.

Key words: Birds; Emberiza citrinella; Europe; Parasitology; Rhinonyssid mites.