The Pet
Duck Guide Book is here!
Coccidea
Coccidia are one-celled protozoa that infect the lining cells of the intestine of infected ducks. Some symptoms include bloody diarrhea and weight loss. Your vet can confirm whether or not they are present by testing a stool sample and looking for their eggs. If the test shows positive, your vet will most likely prescribe Albon, to your entire flock.
Gape Worm (Syngamus trachea)
If you see your duck continually opening its bill and gasping, like it’s trying to get something out of its throat, this could be gape worm, which is also a roundworm.
Don’t take this as a sign of poor hygiene if it comes up. Ducks and geese usually get gape worms from eating earthworms; geese seem to be more vulnerable to them.
The presence of gapeworm can be confirmed via fecal exam, so bring a sample to your vet if you suspect their presence. If positive, your vet will likely prescribe a one-time treatment of Ivermectin® solution, which they will prepare for you. Be sure to treat all of your flock members.
Livingston Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy
We would like to thank Michele for the personal tour of the Conservancy this month. It was great to see you and Ian again and we really enjoyed our visit and your company.
Thank you also for your continued guidance with our own ducks and geese, and for your rapid response through your Webbed Foot Wildlife. Parker the little wood duck found in the road and Turkey Lurkey who lost his momma and decided our sanctuary was a good place to come and ask for help are both alive and well thanks to you!
For more information about the Conservancy or to become a member, please visit their website at www.lrwc.net