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SALMONELLOSIS Within the UK, this disease is most commonly caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhimurium, with most deaths caused by the strains DT40 and DT56. Most outbreaks of the disease are reported from December through to April, with transmission occurring through faecal contamination of food at feeding sites. The main species affected appear to be Greenfinches and House Sparrows but a wide range of other species have had confirmed cases of Salmonella attributable mortality. Outbreaks have also occurred in Canada and the United States (both DT40), New Zealand (DT160) and at garden feeding stations in Norway (DT40 and U277). In the Norwegian outbreaks, the main species involved was Bullfinch. Salmonella bacteria are able to survive within the environment and, under suitable conditions, may multiply. The winter peak in reported cases within the UK, may simply reflect the presence of birds at garden feeding stations and possibly the increased numbers of birds gathered together. However, it is possible that the stresses induced by winter weather conditions may lower birds' immunity and increase their susceptibility to infection. Affected individuals appear fluffed-up, lethargic and reluctant to move away from the feeding station. Many individuals are reported as being visibly ill for a number of days prior to being found dead. The disease causes damage to the internal organs and, even though individuals may continue to feed, damage to the gullet may prevent food reaching the stomach. Samonella typhimurium can cause serious disease in humans and it is essential that sensible hygiene precautions are taken when cleaning feeding areas used by birds or removing and disposing of carcases. Domestic pets have been known to acquire the disease from eating infected birds.
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