Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis What is Trichomoniasis? Trichomoniais is also sometimes referred to as canker. It is a protozoal infection caused by a flagellated parasite called Trichomonas gallinae. What Symptoms Does it Cause? Trich can commonly present in two forms. Dry/Oral canker causes yellow lesions in the crop, mouth and throat.  Wet/Internal canker targets the internal organs causing […]

Tapeworm

Tapeworm What is Tapeworm? Tapeworms are segmented flatworms and not often seen in pigeons as they require an intermediate host like insects or snails. What Symptoms Do They Cause? A pigeon affected with tapeworm may display an initial increase in appetite but this is then usually followed by anorexia, weight-loss, lethargy and diarrhoea. Sometimes worm […]

Strongyles

Strongyles What is Strongyles? While more commonly associated with grazing animals like horses, Strongyles, a type of nematode, is sometimes seen in our testing, especially in wood pigeons who may spend time in contaminated fields. What Symptoms Do They Cause? Symptoms include diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight-loss, and lethargy. In our experience, wood pigeons with […]

Roundworm

Roundworm What is Roundworm? Roundworm are nematodes which are common in captive pigeons but not often seen in wild birds. The adult worms are sometimes visible in the bird’s droppings, especially following treatment. What Symptoms Do They Cause? Mild cases in captive birds may produce few symptoms. More advanced cases can lead to loss of […]

Fluke

Fluke What is Fluke? Fluke are trematodes or flatworms. They are a less common finding than some other parasites and more likely to be seen in wood pigeons than ferals.  What Symptoms Do They Cause? Symptoms include diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight-loss and, sometimes, mucousy droppings. Diagnosis Diagnosis is made by examining the faeces […]

Capillaria

Capillaria What is Capillaria? Capillaria are thread-like nematodes that infect the gastrointestinal tract. The worms themselves are tiny and very difficult to see in the droppings. What Symptoms Do They Cause? Symptoms include diarrhoea, weight-loss, ruffled feathers, and lethargy. In advanced stages, Capillaria burrow into the intestinal wall which can lead to blood in the […]

Coccidia

Coccidia What is Coccidia? Coccidia are protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria that infect the intestinal tract. Coccidia is endemic in pigeons, meaning that it is a normal part of their intestinal makeup. However, when a bird is unwell or stressed, their ability to keep the coccidia ‘in check’ is reduced which can lead to […]