What is a common consequence of a heavy infestation of hippoboscids in raptors?

A heavy infestation of hippoboscids in raptors can lead to significant health issues, notably anemia and disease transmission. Hippoboscids, which are a type of fly, feed on the blood of their hosts. As these parasites consume blood, they can reduce the overall blood volume available to the raptor, potentially resulting in anemia, which can impair oxygen transport in the body and affect the bird's overall health and stamina.

Moreover, hippoboscids can transmit various diseases and pathogens while feeding, thus posing a dual threat to the infected raptor. The combination of blood loss and potential disease makes this condition particularly concerning for birds of prey, which rely on their physical condition for hunting and survival.

The other potential consequences mentioned do not directly relate to the physiological impact of a hippoboscid infestation. For instance, while stress can lead to weight loss, it is not the primary concern associated with these blood-feeding parasites. Enhanced hunting skills would not typically result from a heavy infestation, as the bird's weakened condition would likely impair its ability to hunt effectively. Similarly, increased aggression might occur in some contexts but is not a well-established consequence of hippoboscid infestations specifically, and thus does not appropriately capture the primary risks involved.