Young Bird Sickness
| Pathogen: This is a mixed infection, involving viruses and bacteria (especially E.coli and cocci, but also protozoa). The pathogens are transmitted by air, dust and contact between birds, as well as via communal drinking water and feed. Outbreaks of the disease are promoted by stress factors such as weaning, the introduction of strange birds into a loft, vaccination, heat (accelerated bacterial growth, water shortage), training of juveniles (basketing) and young pigeon flights. (Thanks to Chevita) |
Symptoms of the disease: The disease can take two forms: Sudden death is not preceded by any perceptible signs of illness: A typical scenario sees young pigeons released from the loft for their daily training (on a hot summer’s day, perhaps), whereupon they fly around for an hour and then return to the loft. They land on the roof or on the alighting ledge, do not respond to the breeder’s attempts to entice them into the loft, and die within the space of a few hours. Death preceded by visible signs of illness: During the period between the onset of symptoms and death (lasting from 3 days to 1 week), the following symptoms are observed: lack of activity, puffed-up plumage, refusal of feed, swelling of the crop, weight loss, greenish-yellow faeces in puddles, vomiting. Treatment: There is no vaccine against young pigeon disease that could be used to prevent infection. However, sick pigeons can be treated with Adenosan. And timely use of Adenosan may also prevent an outbreak of the disease in birds suspected of infection. Similar Conditions: E.coli, Hexamitiasis |