Aviator

The EU’s Interreg program aims to protect birds of prey as top predators in the Danube region. These species are increasingly threatened by illegal hunting, poisoning with toxic bait, habitat loss, and risks from wind turbines. In addition, infections with viruses such as West Nile and Usutu can also be fatal. Within an international consortium of research institutions—including veterinary departments at universities in the participating countries—the level of threat to birds of prey will be assessed and targeted conservation strategies developed. The project proposal was approved in April 2025.

The IfD is responsible for activities in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria and will work closely with Professor Dr. Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit (BNI) and PD Dr. Ute Ziegler (FLI) on West Nile virus (WNV) infections in birds of prey. In addition, broader conservation topics—such as vaccination strategies against WNV—will be addressed. Collaboration with key stakeholders, including NABU in Baden-Württemberg and LBV in Bavaria, will ensure strong knowledge exchange. A central component of the project involves mosquito monitoring using newly developed FTA oviposition traps to detect arboviruses, particularly West Nile virus. The project runs for three years and is funded by the EU at 80%. Overall coordination is led by the Institute of Veterinary Medicine in Belgrade.