Trichomonas gallinae in avian populations in urban Tucson, Arizona

Abstract

I studied Trichomonas gallinae, a flagellated protozoan that is the causative agent of the avian disease trichomoniasis. The purpose of my study was to assess (1) the incidence of trichomonads in wild birds, (2) the prevalence of trichomonads in water sources utilized by wild birds, and (3) possible methods to control the transmission of trichomonads in water sources utilized by wild birds. I trapped 403 birds during 1994 and 1995. Approximately 1/3 of these birds tested positive for T. gallinae, however, none exhibited any signs of lesions. I collected water samples from 10 bird baths, isolating flagellated protozoa from 2 of them. I could not identify the species of flagellated protozoa. I determined that high temperatures (50°C), near ultra-violet radiation, and natural sunlight are effective against trichomonads. In addition, the highest effective dilutions of Chlorox, Nolvasan, and distilled white vinegar active against trichomonads were determined.