Isolation and identification of Escherichia coli from cloacal swab of ornamental pet birds in Chattogram, Bangladesh

Abstract

Pet birds are basically housed for ornamental use and as good companions. Escherichia coli is a common bacterial pathogen in pet birds, residing in their intestinal tract as a commensal organism. Avian Pathogenic E. coli can cause avian colibacillosis. The increase of antimicrobial resistance in companion animals has already been reported worldwide. However, there is limited data and studies focusing on the resistance profiles of Escherichia coli isolates from Passeriformes and Psittaciformes, which regarded to be among the most common and popular pet/companion bird species. The current cross-sectional study was conducted to isolate and identify E. coli from apparently healthy companion birds and their antimicrobial resistance profiles. Conventional bacteriological techniques were employed to isolate and recognize E. coli. The confirmation of E. coli identification was established through Gram staining, TSI and Culture Sensitivity test. The isolated strains were assessed for their susceptibility to 6 different antimicrobial agents to determine their resistance patterns. Among the 21 samples tested, E. coli isolates were identified in 12 samples, accounting for 57% of the total. Notably, these twelve isolates exhibited resistance to multiple antimicrobial drugs. This study provides evidence of E. coli presence in pet birds and their antibiotic resistance profiles. This information can serve as a basis for further largescale research into E. coli colonization in pet birds in Bangladesh.