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What
should a fancier know about E. Coli?
E. Coli, also called
Collibacillosis, is now thought to be more prevalent in pigeons than once
suspected. E. Coli is caused by gram negative bacteria which can invade
the loft through infected dust particles, in rodent droppings, and through
infected pigeon droppings coming contact with eggs in the nest. Infected
adult pigeons will emit the bacteria through their droppings, so that
E. Coli can be spread quite readily throughout a pigeon loft.
Symptoms of E. Coli are diverse, because the E. Coli bacteria can manifest
themselves in any part of the pigeon’s body. Most often, young will die
in the nest. Adult birds will become listless and lose weight. Their droppings
will become loose, mucousy, and greenish-yellow in appearance. Sometimes
the droppings will have a foul odor. Occasionally, some birds may nave
nasal discharges and respiratory problems associated with this disease.
To prevent E. Coli, maintain good loft hygiene and keep rodents away from
feed and water. Keeping dust and ammonia levels down will also help to
control any outbreaks.
For medications for prevention and cure of E. Coli, see the E.
Coli section of the Siegel’s catalog. |
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