Three goshawks and several other birds have died suddenly due to kidney failure in the last 6 weeks. All of the birds were apparently healthy and then suddenly died, all were in good flesh, and apparently bright and alert the previous day.
Histopathology has shown inflammation of the kidneys and gout.(visceral). There is a lot of lab work pending at this moment. Several birds have also demonstrated seizure activity. One gos and one hybrid. Several birds are sick at this time.
There are several theories as to the cause of this problem. Dr Redig has been contacted and is aware now that this is a larger problem than previously noted. One theory is zinc toxicity. Please remove the gizzards from all of the quail that you are feeding! Another theory is a virus, or vitamin toxicity from the food source causing kidney failure and sudden death.
Please notify myself or Dr. Redig of any sudden death and help to find the cause if possible. Please refrigerate any unfortunate bird so a post mortum exam and testing can be done.
Please refrigerate any unfortunate bird so a post mortum exam and testing can be done.
Note: Refrigerate! Do NOT Freeze. Freezing will destroy a lot of the information that is needed histologically.
