Trichomoniasis in a greenfinch
(Carduelis chloris)

August 24, 2009

Case history

A male greenfinch (Carduelis chloris) was found in a garden. The bird sat on the ground. It had ruffled feathers and some mucus dropped out of its beak (Photo 1, H. Jansman, Alterra). The animal died shortly after it was first seen.

Macroscopic examination

The bird was in poor nutritional condition and had a moderately developed pectoral muscle.
Thick yellowish exsudate covered part of the oral cavity, the crop and the upper esophagus (Photo 2, arrows. Jansman H., Alterra). No lesions were seen in the trachea. The stomachs were empty. No lesions were seen in the small intestine. The large intestine contained a little viscous fluid. The liver was slight increased in size. The spleen was enlarged.

Microscopic examination

Direct microscopic examination of a swab of material from the crop showed numerous motile trichomonads. In a stained preparation of this material, the protozoa can be seen
(Photo 3, M. Kik, DWHC).

Furthermore, inflammation and a large number of trichomonads were visible upon microscopic examination of the crop and mucosal lining in the beak (Photo 4 and 5, arrows, M. Kik, DWHC).

Conclusion

Macroscopically and microscopically the lesions in this greenfinch were consistent with trichomoniasis (Trichomonas sp. infection). Trichomonas gallinae infection has previously been reported in greenfinches and in other wild bird species.

For Pdf-file of case, click here.

Further information: www.vogelbescherming.nl/