AI Overview
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Yes, doves can get a variety of parasites, including the well-known protozoan
Trichomonas gallinae. This parasite, which also affects pigeons and other bird species, is a common cause of illness and mortality in doves.
Common parasites found in doves
Internal parasites
- Trichomonas gallinae: A single-celled protozoan that infects the upper digestive tract, including the mouth and crop. It causes a disease known as canker, which produces "cheesy" yellow or white lesions in the mouth that can make it difficult for a bird to eat or breathe. Transmission occurs when adults feed their young, and via contaminated bird feeders and water sources.
- Worms: Doves can host several types of intestinal worms, including:
- Roundworms (Ascarids)
- Hairworms (Capillaria)
- Tapeworms (Cestodes)
- Other protozoa: In addition to Trichomonas, doves can be affected by other protozoan parasites like coccidia and Hexamita.
External parasites
- Mites: These tiny parasites can cause a variety of problems, from skin irritation to scaly leg or face.
- Lice: Feather lice can feed on a dove's feathers, causing damage and irritation. A heavy infestation often indicates the bird is already weak from another health issue.
- Pigeon flies: These blood-feeding parasites (hippoboscids) are a nuisance and can also transmit other diseases, including pigeon malaria.
How doves are affected
Parasitic infections can range in severity. Healthy adults can often carry parasites without showing symptoms, but the organisms can cause serious or fatal illness in young or stressed birds. Signs of a parasitic infection can include:
- Weakness or a "fluffed up" appearance
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Weight loss
- Ruffled feathers
- Diarrhea
How to protect doves from parasites
If you have wild doves visiting your property, or if you keep pet doves, you can take steps to prevent the spread of parasites.
- Keep feeders and baths clean: Regularly disinfect backyard bird feeders and baths with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). This is especially important if you see sick birds, as parasites like Trichomonas gallinae can be transmitted through contaminated food and water.
- Prevent overcrowding: Densely populated bird areas increase the risk of disease transmission. Consider limiting the number of birds that can feed at once.
- Quarantine new birds: If you introduce a new dove to a captive flock, quarantine it for a period of time to ensure it is healthy before exposing it to other birds.
- Consult a vet: For pet doves, consult an avian veterinarian for guidance on deworming and parasite prevention. Medications like moxidectin are often effective against internal and external parasites.
