Streptococcosis
Streptococcosis in pigeons was first spotted in Belgium in 1990. An important part of our pigeon population is carrier of this Streptococcus gallolyticus germ without showing any clearly visible clinical illness symptoms. This bacteria mainly causes problems in non-hygienic lofts and during the breeding season. This infection can also appear together with a paratyphus infection.
The last few years in young pigeons we observe combined infections with the adenovirus and/or circovirus. Along with the young pigeon disease we see more and more streptococcus infections.
Clinical symptoms
- Green slimy droppings
- Bad flying performances
- Loss of weight
- Nervous symptoms
- Abscess in the pectoral muscle
- Hanging of one or both wings
- Limping
- Sudden death from pigeons of different ages
Treatment
In case of illness:
- Treat all pigeons during 7 days with Amoxicure (1 measuring spoon per litre non-calcareous water).
- Take hygienic measures on the pigeon loft or a new outbreak will occur soon.
As prevention:
- Install grid floors in the pigeon loft.
- Clean the pigeon loft daily and avoid overpopulation.