By adding all 6 GIS data
layers (e.g., vectors, birds, water, vegetation) to the previous human
population GIS layer, we derive a model that predicts potential WNV
infections to people. High risk areas are identified as SE and SW
Pheonix, the Yuma, N Tucson and Verde Valley regions.
We next examine if any specific
groups of birds are more likely to be infected with WNV. To
accomplish this, we recorded 'vertical' foraging height of birds along the Lower
Colorado River, in S Arizona. Each bird species is identified by
their 4-letter AOU code.
We next looked at the vertical height
distribution of Culex in the vegetation. This mosquito will
probably be the major vector of WNV in Arizona.
By combining bird foraging height with the vector
distribution pattern, we predict that species such as the Warbling Veiro
(WAVI) would have higher prevalences, while birds like the
White-crowned Sparrow (WCSP) would have lower infection rates.