Disease Information | Vadaxin's Aviary

Avian Disease Information

All the information provided here is concise and based on my research and insights from other experienced breeders. Maintaining strict biosecurity measures is essential to prevent diseases, as they can pose a serious threat to any bird collection.

While I guarantee that all birds are healthy and disease-free at the time of sale, I also offer optional disease testing at the buyer’s expense. The testing fee is $100 per bird, with results typically available within 5 to 14 days. Samples, which include both a swab and a blood sample, are sent via USPS Priority Mail Express to AvianBiotech.com for analysis. Tests include screening for PBFD, Psittacosis, Polyoma, and Borna Virus.

Testing and quarantining all new birds for at least 30 days before introducing them to your current flock is crucial. Quarantine should be in a separate room, preferably one with no shared air vents, to prevent airborne transmission of diseases. Ensure new birds have separate food and water supplies, thoroughly wash your hands after contact until test results are received. If handling is necessary, change clothes afterward. Disinfectants like F10, diluted at 1:100, are

effective at eliminating these diseases.

For any additional questions, feel free to contact me. A full breakdown of my protocol will be posted here once it’s ready.

Disease Screening Protocol ( IN THE PROCESS)

Below are the most common infectious diseases found in parrots. All parrots are tested for these four diseases during quarantine before entering my aviary. This strict protocol ensures a clean, disease-free environment. Many of these diseases can be devastating if they become established, so it’s crucial for me to screen all new birds. I also conduct random testing on birds in the nursery to maintain a healthy and safe environment. For transparency, here is a snapshot of my disease testing records. Please keep in mind I have seven pages full of testing and all blank ones are babies that I have produced.

PBFD

Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) is a type of Circovirus that affects birds by compromising their immune systems. This leads to feather loss and abnormalities in the beak and nails. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this viral disease, which has a high mortality rate. It spreads easily and is extremely difficult to eradicate once it has entered the environment.

Avian Polyoma Virus

Avian Polyoma Virus (APV), also known as Budgerigar Fledgling Disease, is a highly infectious disease that affects most, if not all, bird species. It is particularly problematic among young parrots, who often die before weaning. In contrast, adult parrots may develop a certain level of immunity. While a vaccine is available to help prevent the spread of the disease, there is currently no cure.

Psittacosis

Chlamydia psittaci, commonly known as Psittacosis, can cause symptoms such as upper respiratory issues, discharge, and diarrhea, although some birds may remain asymptomatic carriers. Psittacosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted to humans, where it is referred to as Parrot Fever. While the disease is treatable with antibiotics, it’s crucial to test birds for Psittacosis to ensure the safety of both you and your birds.

Avian Borna Virus

Avian Borna Virus (ABV) is a complex and not fully understood virus. While it is not necessarily a death sentence for affected birds, it’s best not to breed birds that test positive for it. ABV is known to impact the neurological system and gastrointestinal tract of birds. Testing for ABV can be unreliable, as the virus is difficult to detect, leading to a high chance of false positives and false negatives. It’s estimated that around 35% of birds worldwide may already carry the virus. ABV is unstable outside the body and is typically transmitted from mother to egg.