Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
ventive measure. All sick birds should be removed from the flock and treated elsewhere. Dead
carcasses should be burned.
Fowlpox:
This disease can cause disease in ducks of all ages. There are two forms of fowl-
pox. The wet form causes canker sore-like lesions in the mouth and throat. This can cause
trouble breathing due to obstruction of these respiratory passages. The dry form causes raised,
bumpy growths on the legs. It can cause problems with growth and egg production. Mosqui-
toes carry and spread this disease. Spraying for mosquitoes can help control the spread. Vac-
cination is suggested if fowlpox becomes a problem in your flock.
Infectious hepatitis:
This disease affects young ducklings between 2 and 3 weeks old. A vir-
us that is either ingested or inhaled by waterfowl causes this disease. The sick duckling ap-
pears to be unable to gain its balance and will be seen lying on its side with its head drawn
back toward the tail. Their legs also will make paddling motions. Most cases result in death
within a day of signs. Vaccinations are available for healthy ducklings in an infected flock.
Mothers can also be vaccinated two weeks before laying eggs to pass immunity on to the
ducklings.
Intestinal parasites:
Different types of intestinal parasites can affect geese and ducks. Cocci-
diosis, roundworms, flukes, and tapeworms are ingested by the birds from the ground or feed
contaminated with feces. Signs of infection are varied and range from young geese with stun-
ted growth, lethargic birds, diarrhea, or death if the birds are heavily infected. If you suspect
your flock has intestinal parasites, take a sample of feces to your veterinarian to examine for
parasites. Once the parasite is identified, treatment is through medication in the feed or water.
Salmonellosis:
The bacterium
salmonella
, an organism that can affect a wide variety of anim-
als and humans, causes this disease. It can quickly become a flock-wide problem due to its
tendency to spread quickly. Signs of salmonellosis include lethargy, diarrhea, swollen joints,
and lameness. Identification of the disease is only made through laboratory testing of feces
from infected birds and examining carcasses of dead or dying birds. A bird that survives sal-
monellosis will remain infected for life, and it should be separated from the rest of the flock to
prevent spread of the disease.
Parasitic diseases
Parasitic infections can plague your birds, especially if they have access to dirt. Check your
birds daily to assess their overall health. Things to observe include feather loss, weight loss,
