Coccidiosis (Caryospora) in falcons
Other names: Coccidia، Bloody diarrhoea in juveniles
Symptoms
- Diarrhoea (possibly bloody or green)
- Lethargy and reduced eating
- Weight loss
- Sudden death in young juveniles
Diagnosis
Faecal test (flotation) for oocysts.
Treatment
Anticoccidials as the vet directs (such as toltrazuril; the name is common in avian medicine; a dose was not verified from a retrieved source). Treatment must be under the supervision of a veterinarian specialised in birds of prey; doses are determined by weight, species and examination results.
Prevention
Strict hygiene in farms and juvenile quarters, changing sand/flooring, periodic faecal testing; a Caryospora vaccine has been tried in the field.
Season
Breeding and juvenile season (spring-summer); at a gyrfalcon centre in the UAE the prevalence reached ~71% at 67 days and ~96% at 70 days.
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.