Coccidiosis - transfer between birds and cattle?

Discussion Forum

Coccidiosis - transfer between birds and cattle?

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mike lewis 13 Oct 2009, 2:08 PM
On a recent farm visit to a farmer with a herd of Friesians, it was evident that they have quite a population of collared dove and the farmer considers them quite a nuisance.  The issue they are really worried about though is coccidiosis. They know that it is possible for the birds to get a version of the disease and the fear is that the birds could pass it onto their animals through the droppings.  I believe the parasite tends to be species specific i.e. it can't be passed on but I would be interested to have this confirmed one way or the other. Could anyone enlighten me further please?

Re: Coccidiosis - transfer between birds and cattle?

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gethin 15 Oct 2009, 3:11 PM

Wild birds can be a vector for coccidiosis to poultry and game birds, though not aware they pose a risk to cattle, which along with other large livestock are much less prone to coccidiosis than poultry. Its also younger animals that are more susceptible, with risk of disease spread increasing with build-up of faecal contamination – can be a particular issue for young lambs/calve using creep feeders.