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Infectious Diseases of Wild Birds

Wild birds are susceptible to a variety of diseases, many of which can be spread to humans. According to the California Department of Fish and Game, bird feeders can be a prime location for contamination. As a result, it's important to clean and sanitize bird feeders weekly. Bird feeders should also be kept away from areas where food is prepared or eaten. As noted at the Project Feeder Watch website, a joint project of the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology and Bird Studies of Canada, "Only veterinarians or federally licensed wildlife rehabilitators can legally treat wild birds." Report sick birds rather than treating them yourself.

  1. Salmonellosis

    • Salmonellosis is a bacteria that is most commonly spread by bird feces. According to the Massachusetts Audubon Society, the bacteria is common during the winter, when birds flock together to keep warm. Birds that are infected tend to lose weight rapidly and may appear lethargic. The bacteria causes death in birds in one to three days. Some strains of salmonellosis can also be spread to humans, so be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling feeders or other items that might be infected.

    Avian Flu

    • Avian flu is also spread in bird droppings. According to the California Department of Fish and Game, birds of the Passerine order (feeder birds), waterfowl and shorebirds are especially susceptible to the disease. Avian flu can cause sudden death in birds, as well as a variety of symptoms that include diarrhea, decrease in egg production, lethargy and loss of appetite and paralysis. There are several strains of the avian flu, but the H5NI strain is particularly dangerous to humans.

    Aspergillosis

    • Aspergillosis is also known as brooder pneumonia, pseudotuberculosis, "asper" mycosis and mycotic pneumonia, as noted in the Field Manual of Wildlife Diseases online. The disease is caused by a fungus that leads to problems with the respiratory tract. Aspergillosis has had particularly damaging affects in bird hatcheries, although it is also found in wild birds. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments with decaying organic materials. According to Project Feeder Watch, those who live in humid, warm areas should avoid bird feed that contain corn and peanuts to avoid contamination from wild birds.

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