Which birds are highly susceptible to the West Nile virus?

The birds that are highly susceptible to the West Nile virus belong to the corvid family, which includes species such as crows, ravens, and jays. These birds are particularly vulnerable to the virus due to various factors, including their immune system responses and their feeding behaviors. Corvids have shown high mortality rates when infected with West Nile virus, making them critical indicators of the disease's presence in a given area.

Their susceptibility plays a significant role in monitoring the spread of the virus, as their deaths can serve as an early warning system for potential outbreaks affecting humans and other animal species. Understanding the impact of West Nile virus on corvids is essential for effective public health strategies and mosquito control efforts, as these birds are often a primary host for the virus and contribute to its transmission cycle through mosquitoes.