Characterizing the trade of wild birds for merit release in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and associated risks to health and ecology

► Release of birds for making spiritual merit is common across East and South Asia. ► We surveyed sales of 'merit' birds for 13 months in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. ► Estimated annual turnover at this site was 688,675 individual birds. ► Significant numbers of Near Threatened Asian golden weaver were recorded in trade. ► Zoonotic viruses and bacteria were detected in birds sold for merit release.