RICARDO LOPES TALKS ABOUT THE BIRDS OF PORTO AT “RADIO NOVA”

On October 1, 2016, CIBIO-InBIO researcher Ricardo Jorge Lopes gave an expert view about two species of birds which are commonly found in Porto to Radio Nova, in the scope of “Ciência ao Ouvido”, a programme dedicated to technology, innovation and science present in daily life coordinated and promoted by the University of Porto.

Due to their versatility and to potentially suitable survival conditions found in different city spots, such as dumpsters, seagulls and pigeons can rather easily adapt to different habitats. This behaviour can originate some problems, like the degradation of buildings caused by the feces of the animals. According to Ricardo, “in general, these birds are harmless, since their diseases generally do not affect humans. Nevertheless, for example, their feces can carry some antibiotic resistant bacteria, as these animals feed in some spots that are known to contain these kinds of microorganisms”.

In order to avoid critical public health situations and infrastructural damage, the researcher suggests taking actions, which may include controlling these animals’ feeding and cleaning up old buildings and other areas. Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that seagulls and pigeons will still be part of the typical landscape of Porto and are expected to continue to adapt to the constant changes of the city.

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“Ciência ao Ouvido” | Rádio Nova| October 1, 2016 (Information available in Portuguese)