‘Fat Finch’ disease & Hogs
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I have seen chaffinches in my garden dying from this recently and I’ve done as much as I can (as suggested by the experts) as it’s disheartening to see. I’m wondering if hedgehogs can catch it and I can’t find anything online. It can be spread by food and water. Anyone know of a connections?I have hogs in my garden.
Hi Kassie
According to the BTO Trichomonas gallinae (which causes Trichomonosis – which is, I believe, what you are talking about) “is a parasite of birds and does not pose a health risk to humans or their mammalian pets.” Whilst hedgehogs aren’t pets, I imagine that it would not pose a threat to them either, but it’s a good idea to always practice good hygiene in areas where hogs are fed as well.
Oh thank you so much for the info. I had been concerned as it’s difficult to ‘manage’ wild animals/birds.
I have Goldfinches which have had this too and unfortunately have found 4 dead ones this year. They have seed stuck on their beak and just sit around looking fluffed up and not moving. Though I rescued one, it did not make it, but due to several neighbours’ cats patrolling felt it was kinder as it just would not fly away. To avoid them getting in the ‘food chain’ I removed them as soon as I spotted them. I did see a photo of a hog eating a small bird on here (which I didn’t know they would). I have bird feeders that I clean regularly, plus the floor underneath the feeders too. I make sure the hog food and water is not near them (and remove/replace daily) but have now made covered feeding stations mainly to deter cats and magpies!
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