A guide to the interpretation of your pigeon laboratory results




Cocci/Worms

The sign "<" means "less than".

The following table shows an interpretation of results for your information:

All counts are per gramme of faeces
Number of Coccidia Number of. Roundworms Number of. Hairworms Interpretation Advice
0 ~ 3,000 0 0 No problem
3,001 ~ 20,000 1 ~ 1,000 1 ~ 50 Moderate infection Treatment may be necessary for birds that will race
20,001 ~ 50,000 1,001 ~ 5,000 51 ~ 5,000 Severe infection Treatment is necessary

Should you require treatments for your birds in light of your laboratory results, then please contact your local veterinary surgeon.

E.coli

Most pigeons probably carry E.coli. There are many strains - both good and bad but it is not possible to distinguish between them on routine culture. However, the antibiotic sensitivity pattern will warn you of potential problems. In very general terms, the more resistance shown ("R"), the more you need to be wary. Remember it is possible for pigeon E.coli's to infect you and pass on any antibiotic resistance patterns. This is why responsible and correct use of antibiotics is so important.

Salmonella

Pigeons should not be infected with Salmonella. Many strains will not show any clinical signs in your birds. The important pigeon one is S.typhimurium.

Remember that all salmonellae could infect you and therefore personal hygiene is important.

Consult your veterinary surgeon if the result is positive.

Campylobacter

Pigeons should not be infected with Campylobacter. Clinical signs in your birds are unlikely to be seen.

Remember that all campylobacter could infect you and therefore personal hygiene is important.

Consult your veterinary surgeon if the result is positive.