What is Avian herpes in the context of raptors?

Avian herpes refers to a viral disease that affects birds, including raptors. This condition is caused by herpesviruses that can lead to various health issues in affected birds. Symptoms of avian herpes can include respiratory problems, neurological effects, and skin lesions. The disease is significant because it can severely impact the health of the birds involved, potentially leading to mortality and affecting populations in the wild and in captivity.

The other options describe different health-related issues that raptors can experience, but they do not accurately characterize avian herpes. Tumors in the digestive tract are not viral in nature, nor are bacterial infections related to the herpes virus. Similarly, a condition caused by poor diet does not pertain to a viral disease like avian herpes, which has specific viral etiology rather than being a consequence of nutritional shortcomings. Understanding avian herpes is essential for falconers and avian veterinarians in managing the health of these birds effectively.