Illness identification help!

[cakehappens]

Hi all,

I got a group of 10 turkeys almost a year ago, and they're about a year old now. Lost one to a fox early on, but other than that they've thrived until now.

I've lost two females in the last two weeks, and have a third showing the same symptoms who I fear may be dead when I go to feed them later today.

They seem to stop eating entirely, although will still drink. When I first noticed the third sick bird I separated her and gave her a pile of veg which she did seem to try and eat, but I don't think any of it ever went down, almost looked like it was just falling out her mouth. The affected birds spend all their time sat down, unless I approach - they're very reluctant to let anyone near them. They also lose all colour in the comb and wattle and stop making any noise.

So far no more than one bird has been infected at a time which I find bizarre - the first one died, then two days later I noticed the second, some days after she died the third displayed symptoms.

Does anyone have any ideas?
Thanks.

 

[BantamBrain]

So sorry for your loss!

I would ask a vet or university to do a necropsy on your most recent loss, and have them checked for blackhead. It can spread fast and wipe out an entire flock. If you have the stomach to handle it, you can perform a necropsy yourself. You need to have the liver checked for yellow rings, which are caused by the parasite. Also, if these dead birds are not disposed of properly (burned or buried 6 feet) they can re-infect the flock, because the parasite lives in soil and earthworms can carry it back to the flock to be eaten. This effects the digestive system and lowers the immune system, opening birds to secondary infections.

There is also a case of bird flu threatening the Midwest that has shut down poultry farms and showmanship at fairgrounds. This effects the respiratory system.

In the meantime I suggest general quarantine---sterilize EVERYTHING, and if you can, keep the birds bedding area spotless. Also give them some electrolytes to keep them hydrated and maybe try to give them a liquid diet to keep them from losing too much weight.

I wish you and your flock the best of luck.