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bacterial disease Northern bald ibis, Long-legged buzzard Transmissible to humans

Avian salmonellosis

Find a veterinarian All northern bald ibis diseases

Definition Signs Causes Transmission Diagnosis Treatment Prevention Complications When to see a vet Zoonosis Prognosis FAQ Sources Affected species

What is it?

Avian salmonellosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the Salmonella genus. It affects many birds, including the bald ibis, a rare and endangered species of wading bird, sometimes found in conservation programs or in captivity. This disease can cause severe digestive disorders and seriously weaken the bird, especially young ones or already weakened individuals.\nIn the bald ibis, a species with a conservation status of concern, any bacterial infection must be taken very seriously because it can compromise programs to safeguard the species.

Key point

The bald ibis is a globally threatened species; any infectious disease represents a major challenge for its conservation and requires rapid specialized veterinary treatment.

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:

Diarrhea Reduction Loss of appetite Fever Weight loss Fatigue Dehydration Soft stools Blood in stools Bloating Difficulty breathing Behaviour change Hiding or withdrawing

The most common signs are diarrhea sometimes tinged with blood, marked depression, loss of appetite and progressive weight loss.\nThe bird may appear prostrate, stand away from the group, have ruffled feathers and show dehydration.\nIn severe forms, fever, breathing difficulties or sudden death may occur, particularly in young birds or weakened birds.\nSome carrier birds show no visible symptoms but can excrete the bacteria in their droppings.

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 bacteria of the genus Salmonella, several serotypes of which can infect wild and captive birds. Contamination most often occurs through ingestion of water, food or litter soiled by contaminated droppings.\nContact with rodents, insects or other carrier birds can also play a role in transmission.

Young age, stress (transport, change of environment, recent captivity), overpopulation, insufficient hygiene of enclosures and water points, as well as an immune system weakened by another disease increase the risk of infection and serious form.

Transmission

Transmission is mainly by the fecal-oral route: ingestion of water or food soiled by contaminated droppings. Direct contact between birds, sharing water points or feeders, as well as the presence of pests (rodents, insects) favor the spread. The bacteria can also be transmitted from the female to the egg.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

The veterinarian relies on clinical signs associated with a bacteriological analysis of droppings or cloacal swabs to confirm the presence of Salmonella. Additional analyzes (blood test, search for other infectious agents) may be necessary to assess the general condition of the bird and rule out other causes of diarrhea.

Treatment

Treatment is based on appropriate antibiotic therapy after identification of the germ, associated with rehydration and nutritional support. Isolation of the sick bird and strict hygiene measures are essential to prevent spread to other birds.

Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.

Prevention

Rigorous hygiene of facilities, regular cleaning and disinfection of feeders and drinkers, as well as the fight against rodents and insects are essential.\nQuarantine of new arrivals and health control during reintroduction or exchange programs between conservation centers help limit the introduction of the bacteria.\nQuality food and limiting stress strengthen the bird's natural defenses.

Possible complications

Severe dehydration, septicemia (generalized infection) or death can occur if not treated promptly, especially in young or weakened birds. Asymptomatic carriers can maintain environmental contamination.

When to see a veterinarian

The bird has persistent or bloody diarrhea.

He refuses to eat or seems very depressed.

He loses weight quickly or stays isolated from the group.

Several birds in the same enclosure show similar signs.

Any sign of illness in a bald ibis, an endangered species, must be reported promptly to a specialist veterinarian.

Transmission to humans

Salmonella can be transmitted to humans, particularly through contact with droppings or the contaminated environment, causing digestive problems (gastroenteritis). Wearing gloves and washing hands carefully after handling birds or cleaning enclosures are recommended, particularly for vulnerable people (children, elderly people, immunocompromised people).

Prognosis

The prognosis is generally favorable if the disease is detected and treated early. It becomes more reserved in young birds, in case of delay in treatment or generalized form. Monitoring after recovery is important because some birds may remain carriers.

Frequently asked questions

Is salmonellosis common in bald ibises?

It is not specific to this species but can affect any bird, particularly in captivity or in conservation centers where stress and promiscuity favor its spread.

Can a carrier bald ibis without symptoms infect others?

Yes, an asymptomatic carrier bird can shed the bacteria in its droppings and contaminate the environment, water or other birds.

Can this disease be prevented by vaccination?

There is no commonly used vaccine against salmonellosis in wild birds or the bald ibis; prevention is mainly based on hygiene and health management.

What should I do if I find a sick wild bald ibis?

Wildlife protection authorities or a specialist veterinarian should be contacted immediately, without handling the bird carelessly, due to the zoonotic risk and the protected status of the species.