Update research on Newcastle Disease: found in five doves

In August 2025, many sick and dead doves were reported to the DWHC from Groningen. During our examination, we found Newcastle Disease (NCD) in two of the doves. Subsequently, we received similar reports from other parts of the Netherlands: birds were hunched over, lying on their sides or backs, sometimes with their heads tilted far back or turning in circles.

So far, a total of 27 doves, primarily Feral Rock Doves, have been collected and tested for NCD. Five of these doves tested positive: two Feral Rock Doves from Groningen, one from Amsterdam, one from Alphen a/d Rijn, and one from Maastricht (figure 1). Several doves from various parts of the Netherlands are currently being tested.

Newcastle Disease research in birds of prey

Since birds of prey hunt doves, it is possible that they too can become infected with this disease. Infected birds of prey exhibit neurological symptoms similar to birds infected with bird flu.

We are particularly interested in investigating possible infection with the NCD virus in birds of prey from areas where infected doves have also been found. Therefore, we hope to collect and examine birds of prey with neurological symptoms before death from nearby areas. So far, one Common Buzzard has tested negative for the NCD virus, and the testing of a second Common Buzzard is ongoing. Both birds were found in the province of Groningen.