Bacterial and parasitic diseases of Columbiformes

Abstract

Bacterial and parasitic diseases are not uncommon in domestic doves and pigeons. Many of the bacteria and parasites found in columbids do not cause disease unless the birds are immunocompromised. Often there are underlying viral infections that contribute to illness. This article focuses on some of the more common infections from a practical clinical point of view. Recent updates from the literature are included.

Fig. 1

Neurologic signs of paramyxovirus 1. Pigeons are exhibiting stargazing, torticollis, and polyuria.

Fig. 2

Articular form of salmonellosis. Swelling of the tibiotarsal tarsometatarsal joint and wing, causing lameness and inability to fly (wing droop).

Fig. 3

Gazzi Modina breed pigeon with severe wing droop articular form of Salmonellosis.

Fig. 4

Ornithosis complex (one-eye cold) conjunctivitis. Underlying organisms may be Mycoplasma sp, Chlamydophila psittaci, or bacteria.

Fig. 5

Pigeon with caseous trichomoniasis lesion. This advanced form is canker complicated with secondary bacterial infection.

Fig. 6

Squab with omphalitis (right chick). This is an atypical presentation of trichomoniasis complicated with secondary bacteria. The squab on the left is normal for comparison.

Fig. 7

Crop abscess secondary to trichomoniasis, readily corrected with surgery.