Pet Information > ASK Experts > Pet Birds > Pigeons > Rock Pigeon Squab

Rock Pigeon Squab

23 10:44:32

Question
QUESTION: I have found a 14-15 days old Rock Pigeon squab on my window. It has watery eyes with light yellow secretion depositing at the bottom of its eyes. It does not seem to open its eyes normally as if it has some uneasiness in keeping its eyes open like other birds. It has protruded breast bone. It seems that it has not been fed for last one day since its crop seemed empty & it is very light weighted. It shows no interest in food & has green droppings. I have forcibly fed some mustard seeds & water.
Please suggest proper care/food & medicine to be given to make the bird healthy. (Please note that we don't have any rehabilitation center or proper veterinary doctors here). So, I am very worried. Please help.

Thanks & Regards,

Tina
Kolkata
India

ANSWER: I don't claim to be an expert on pigeon health, but it sounds like the classical description of coccidiosis to me.  You will need parasite meds.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your response but I need to know what medicine can be given to cure it.I see that the squab cannot open it's eyes due to white layer deposition inside the eyes.However after cleaning it with water and removing the white layer with a lot of effort,it is able to open it's eyes partially.The dropping seems to be normal now.The squab is very eager to fly as it hears the sound of other pigeon.I am worried about it.Please help and suggest me what I can do to bring the squab in good health.
Thanks & Regards
Tina
Kolkata
India

Answer
The only way to positively identify is with a stool sample under microscope by a DMV. Common roundworm can also show these symptoms, and likely other diseases.  I am not a vet.  Medications used here in the US are likely not available in India. I will not be able to help you with this.