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Canary respiratory acariasis (sternostomosis)
Sternostomosis is a parasitic disease of canaries caused by a tiny mite, Sternostoma tracheacolum, which settles in the respiratory tract of the bird: trachea, bronchi, air sacs and sometimes lungs.\nThis parasite is specific to birds and i...
What is it?
Sternostomosis is a parasitic disease of canaries caused by a tiny mite, Sternostoma tracheacolum, which settles in the respiratory tract of the bird: trachea, bronchi, air sacs and sometimes lungs.\nThis parasite is specific to birds and is found mainly in canaries, but also in other small cage birds such as canaries or mandarins.\nThe infestation can remain discreet for a long time, then suddenly worsen, especially in cases of stress or high heat.
Key point
Untreated severe infestation can lead to acute respiratory distress and death of the bird, particularly during stress or handling.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
The most characteristic sign is an abnormal breathing sound, often described as a "click" or squeak audible especially at night or at rest, when the bird is calm.\nWe also observe breathing that has become difficult, sometimes with the beak open, movements of the tail synchronized with each breath, and coughing or small sneezes.\nThe song may change tone or become hoarse, or even stop completely.\nThe affected bird is often tired, less active, eats less and loses weight gradually.\nIn severe forms, sudden respiratory distress may occur, particularly during handling or stress.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
The disease is caused by a microscopic mite, Sternostoma tracheacolum, which lives and reproduces directly in the canary's respiratory tract.\nFemales lay eggs in the trachea; the larvae that emerge are then coughed up, swallowed, and then released into the droppings, allowing the parasite to spread to other birds.
Birds living in collective aviaries or in close contact with other canaries are more exposed, because transmission occurs through contaminated droppings and direct contact.\nYoung birds, weakened, stressed or already sick birds seem more susceptible to a severe infestation.\nA high density of birds, insufficient cage hygiene and excessive heat favor the appearance of marked symptoms.
Transmission
Transmission occurs mainly by direct contact between birds and by ingestion of contaminated droppings containing the larvae of the parasite. A shared environment, such as a common aviary, promotes propagation between individuals.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
The veterinarian first relies on listening to the characteristic respiratory sounds, often perceptible with a stethoscope or even by ear in a silent room.\nA direct examination of the trachea can be carried out under transillumination lighting, a technique which sometimes allows mites to be visualized through the thin skin of the neck in the canary.\nX-rays of the thorax and additional examinations may be offered to assess damage to the air sacs and rule out other respiratory causes.
Treatment
Treatment is based on the use of specific antiparasitics prescribed and adapted by the veterinarian, capable of acting on mites present in the respiratory tract.\nSupportive treatment, such as oxygen therapy or respiratory aid, may be necessary in the event of acute respiratory distress.\nTreatment of all birds in contact is often recommended to avoid reinfestations.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
It is recommended to maintain good hygiene in the cage or aviary, with regular cleaning of feeders, drinkers and the floor.\nAny new bird introduced into a flock should be isolated for a few weeks and examined by a veterinarian before being put into contact with others.\nLimiting the density of birds and avoiding sources of stress or excessive heat also helps to reduce the risks.\nRegular veterinary checks can detect an infestation before it becomes severe.
Possible complications
A significant infestation can lead to progressive obstruction of the airways, leading to severe respiratory distress or even death from asphyxiation, especially in cases of stress, handling or high heat.
When to see a veterinarian
The bird emits abnormal breathing sounds, clicks or squeaks, especially when resting.\nIts breathing becomes difficult, rapid or is accompanied by marked movements of the tail.\nIts song changes tone, becomes hoarse or disappears.\nThe bird is depressed, eats less or visibly loses weight.\nA sudden difficulty in breathing appears, particularly after handling or stress.
Prognosis
The prognosis is generally favorable if the disease is detected and treated at an early stage, before severe respiratory damage.\nIn the event of massive infestation or late diagnosis, the prognosis becomes more guarded, with a risk of serious respiratory distress, particularly during stressful situations.
Frequently asked questions
Can canary sternostomosis be transmitted to humans?
No, Sternostoma tracheacolum is a parasite specific to birds. It does not represent a known risk to humans.
How does a canary get this disease?
Most often through contact with another infested bird or by ingesting contaminated droppings containing the larvae of the parasite, particularly in a collective aviary.
Does my canary's breathing sound always go away with treatment?
In many birds, breathing sounds decrease significantly after treatment, but the progression depends on the degree of damage to the respiratory tract. Veterinary follow-up is necessary to confirm healing.
Should we treat all the birds in the aviary?
Yes, it is generally recommended, as the disease is easily transmitted between birds in contact, even if some do not yet show symptoms.
References
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 11 August 2026
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This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for a veterinary consultation. If you have any concerns about your animal's health, consult a veterinarian.
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