What Types of Diseases Can a Bird Get by Drinking Contaminated Water?

Birds are susceptible to various diseases through water contamination. Viruses and bacteria can be harbored within drinking water, which can easily become contaminated in unsanitary conditions. If a drinking water container or a birdbath that isn't properly cleaned becomes contaminated by a virus or bacteria, birds can become sick. Wild birds, such as waterfowl, can also be sickened or killed by ingesting cyanobacteria.

  1. Salmonella

    • Drinking containers can become contaminated.

      Salmonella is a common bacteria that can affect birds. Because the bacteria is capable of surviving outside its host (the bird), it is shed by nasal and or ocular secretions, fecal material and feather dust and it becomes an aerosol, or liquid particle, which dries into a dust. Aerosols are capable of transmitting the bacteria to inanimate objects, such as drinking bowls and containers. If a healthy bird drinks from a contaminated water bowl, it will most likely become ill. According to Avian Biotech, the symptoms of salmonella can be drowsiness, lack of appetite and diarrhea.

    Avian Flu

    • Bird flu is often fatal to birds.

      Avian influenza, or bird flu, is caused by a group of viruses prevalent among birds worldwide. These viruses can be shed through nasal and saliva secretions or feces. If the secretions or fecal matter get into drinking water, noninfected birds can easily become contaminated. A contaminated bird doesn't have to show symptoms of the disease to be capable of passing it on to healthy birds. Among the symptoms a bird might exhibit are a reduction in egg laying, respiratory ailments, diarrhea and weakness. Avian flu can be fatal.

    Cyanobacteria

    • Cyanobacteria sickens and kills waterfowl.

      Cyanobacteria live in water and can feed themselves by photosynthesis. These organisms can be found in marine water, fresh water and brackish water. Some species of cyanobacteria produce toxins that can be harmful to waterfowl that drink the water. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, under the right conditions (such as in warm water), cyanobacteria can "bloom," or grow rapidly. This can cause problems for waterfowl; contamination by cyanobacteria can result in muscle twitching, diarrhea and bluish coloration of the tongue, as well as affect the organs and brain. It can also be fatal.