In recent weeks we have had number of Collard Doves in our garden which appear unwell. They are very lethargic, untidy looking and their throats seem to be puffed out making that area appear white. They also seem to be gagging, and they not eating. To date we have not found a dead one in the garden or nearby. Has anyone else seen this condition and perhaps know what it is, and is it fatal?
Ted Lester.
Shoeburyness.
Welcome to the forum Ted! Mum has seen some of her collared doves suffer in the same way. I'm no expert but a quick Google search shows up a disease called Trichomoniasis. This apparently is often fatal (sorry for the bold lettering, I copied the word from another site and the text has remained bold.....)
"All weeds are flowers, once you get to know them" (Eeyore)
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Hello - unfortunately, it does sound as if it could be trichomoniasis - it causes the throat to become blocked by growths resulting in the birds struggling to eat - you can find more information on the main RSPB website health and disease pages
Unfortunately, not very much you can do for the birds once they get to this stage. Best advice is to maintain good hygiene around your feeders - if yopu see a lot of birds with the condition you, and your neighbours should bring your feeders in completely for a few weeks so that more birds aren't put at risk by coming into contact with the sick birds - rather than repeat other threads here i would urge you to read the advice on the website.
All the best
LRB
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