Key Takeaways

• Pigeons have a highly developed respiratory system to meet their oxygen demands during flight.
• Respiratory diseases are common in pigeons and can impact their overall health and performance.
• Common respiratory diseases in pigeons include chronic respiratory disease complex (CRDC), ornithosis, canker, and respiratory infections caused by bacteria and fungi.

Respiratory System of Pigeons

The respiratory system of pigeons consists of the respiratory tract, respiratory organs or lungs, and air sacs. Unlike mammals, pigeons lack a muscular diaphragm. Instead, they rely on the movement of their breast muscles to assist with respiration. The respiratory tract of pigeons is simple compared to that of humans and other mammals.

Pigeons have a unique respiratory feature called air sacs. These air sacs extend into various parts of their body, including the neck, wings, and abdomen. The air sacs assist in the efficient exchange of gases during flight by constantly supplying fresh oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.

Respiratory Diseases in Pigeons

Respiratory diseases are common in pigeons and can have a significant impact on their health and overall performance. Some common respiratory diseases in pigeons include:

Chronic Respiratory Disease Complex (CRDC)

Chronic respiratory disease complex, also known as ornithosis complex, one-eyed cold, pigeon cold, or coryza, is a common respiratory disease in pigeons. It often follows a persistent, chronic course and is characterized by sneezing, swollen sinuses, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. The disease can be caused by bacterial and viral infections.

Ornithosis

Ornithosis is another respiratory disease that affects pigeons. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci and can be transmitted to humans, causing flu-like symptoms. Infected pigeons may exhibit symptoms such as lack of condition, nasal secretions, decreased desire to fly, sneezing, rattling, coughing, and discolored wattles.

Canker

Canker, also known as trichomoniasis, is a fungal infection that affects the respiratory system and digestive tract of pigeons. It is caused by the protozoan Trichomonas gallinae and can result in symptoms such as weight loss, eye discharge, difficulty breathing, and diarrhea.

Bacterial and Fungal Respiratory Infections

Pigeons are also susceptible to respiratory infections caused by various bacteria and fungi. These infections can result in symptoms such as panting after flying, sneezing, eye and nostril discharge, swollen cere and sinus, stretching of neck and swallowing, and yawning.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases in pigeons are essential to maintain their health and performance. Some measures that can be taken include:

• Keeping the loft and surroundings clean and free from sources of contamination.
• Quarantining new pigeons and observing them for signs of illness before introducing them to the existing flock.
• Vaccinating pigeons against common respiratory diseases, such as paramyxovirus.
• Regularly inspecting and monitoring pigeons for any signs of respiratory issues.
• Administering appropriate medications and treatments as recommended by avian veterinarians.

It’s important for pigeon fanciers to be proactive in maintaining the respiratory health of their pigeons by implementing good loft management practices, observing proper hygiene, and seeking professional veterinary care when necessary.