Duck disease control and parasites

Ducks are fairly disease resistant when good husbandry and management techniques are practiced. The following is a list of some of the more common duck diseases:

  • leg weakness
  • cholera
  • botulism
  • mycosis
  • non-specific diarrhoea
  • salmonellosis
  • sinusitis
  • spirochaetosis
  • rickets
  • vitamin A deficiency
  • white eye

Before selecting any preparation for the treatment of birds, it is important to ensure that the preparation is registered for the particular purpose for which it is to be used. Carefully read the directions on the label of any chemical product. Veterinarians can assist where there are no registered products.

Parasites

Breeding stock will not perform well if infested with parasites. The most common internal parasite is the large roundworm (Ascaridia galli), which should be controlled.

The most common external parasites are body lice, which should be controlled by dusting or spraying the birds with an approved product. Closely follow the directions on the label.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL

Users of agricultural (or veterinary) chemical products must always read the label and any Permit before using the product, and strictly comply with the directions on the label and the conditions of any Permit. Users are not absolved from compliance with the directions on the label or the conditions of the Permit by reason of any statement made or not made in this publication.