
Birds in the UK can carry diseases that can affect humans and pets, including:
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Salmonellosis
A common and often fatal disease caused by the bacteria salmonella. It's spread through saliva and droppings, especially when birds gather in large groups, like at feeders.
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Avian influenza
A highly contagious disease that's currently spreading in the UK. It occurs naturally in wild birds and can infect domestic poultry.
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Cryptococcosis
A common disease caused by a fungus in dried pigeon droppings. It can lead to respiratory problems, skin lesions, and brain infection, which can be fatal.
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Newcastle disease
A notifiable disease of game birds in the UK. It was first reported in the UK in 1963 in pheasants.
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Tuberculosis
A disease that can be transmitted to people through contact with birds, livestock, and non-human primates.