- Protozoans: These single-celled organisms can cause diseases such as malaria and trichomonosis.
- Bacteria: Bacteria can cause infections such as salmonellosis and tuberculosis.
- Fungi: Fungi can cause infections such as aspergillosis and candidiasis.
- Viruses: Viruses can cause diseases such as avian influenza and Newcastle disease.
- Ectoparasites: These parasites live on the outside of the body and can include fleas, lice, mites, and ticks.
- Endoparasites: These parasites live inside the body and can include worms, tapeworms, and flukes.
Some of the most common parasites that affect hummingbirds include:
- Avian malaria: This disease is caused by a protozoan called Plasmodium and is transmitted by mosquitoes. Symptoms of avian malaria include lethargy, weakness, weight loss, and anemia.
- Trichomonosis: This disease is caused by a protozoan called Trichomonas and is transmitted through direct contact with infected birds. Symptoms of trichomoniasis include mouth lesions, difficulty swallowing, and weight loss.
- Salmonellosis: This disease is caused by bacteria called Salmonella and is transmitted through contact with contaminated food or water. Symptoms of salmonellosis include diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
- Aspergillosis: This disease is caused by a fungus called Aspergillus and is transmitted through inhalation of fungal spores. Symptoms of aspergillosis include respiratory problems, weight loss, and weakness.
- Fleas: Fleas are small, wingless insects that can infest the nests and feathers of hummingbirds. Fleas can cause irritation and itching and can also transmit diseases.
- Lice: Lice are small, wingless insects that can infest the feathers of hummingbirds. Lice can cause irritation and itching and can also transmit diseases.
- Mites: Mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that can infest the skin and feathers of hummingbirds. Mites can cause irritation and itching and can also transmit diseases.
- Ticks: Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that can infest the skin of hummingbirds. Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and tularemia.
It is important to note that not all hummingbirds will get parasites and that the severity of the infection can vary depending on the type of parasite and the health of the bird. If you are concerned that your hummingbird may have parasites, it is important to take it to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.