Mold and Poultry: Diseases and Danger Signs

Certain types of mold and mildew are capable of causing problems not only to human health , but also to animals, making mold removal services a necessity. That said, thousands of chickens, turkey and even large animals like pigs, horses and cows are susceptible to the harmful effects of mold, given that it can cause potentially debilitating diseases which could mean the difference between roasted chicken or a disposed carcass. So, you need to check your chicken coop and barn for any signs of these fungi given that they are able to cause the following health defects:

Brooder Pneumonia or Aspergillosis

This disease, as mentioned in some of the previous articles, is one of the main reasons why you need to call for mold removal services during the early stages of infestation. Mainly caused by mold genus Aspergillis (though it can be caused by other types of mold as well), this disease is more common in turkeys than it is on chickens and is potentially fatal, especially in young birds. Here are some of the facts regarding this diseases:

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  Its mode of transmission can be airborne or ingested. Mold grows on dead plant material, especially rotten wood. They release spores into the air which is then inhaled by the bird, causing health problems. Contaminated bird feed can also transmit it.

• Despite its name and nature, it is not contagious and cannot spread from one bird to the other. The main reason why it affects a huge number of birds is can spread in a really large area, affecting a lot of them.

• Though exposure to miniscule amounts won't cause the disease, is essential to immediately kill the mold before it can do damage.

Symptoms in young birds include sleepiness, loss of appetite, gasping and convulsions. In older birds, loss of body weight and coughing is prevalent. The mold will then be able to invade, destroy and grown body organs, especially the lungs.

Moniliasis or Candiasis

This disease is characterized by oral thrush (which can also happen to humans – just the thought of a yeast and mold infection on the tongue can make anyone cringe) and the upper digestive tract of all birds. These organs will then have whitish, thickened areas which then causes the erosion and inflammation of the organs in the said areas. Poultry of all ages and types are susceptible to this disease and is usually transmitted through infected feed, unclean water and unsanitary conditions. 

Mycotoxicosis

Mainly caused by different types of mold, especially the dreaded black mold, making mold removal services an inherent need in the United States. In poultry and livestock, it spreads the same way as Aspergillis: through contaminated feed and mold thriving in the area. It can hinder body functions like lung particle clearance and it is very toxic – it even rivals the toxicity of the botulism toxin.

Overall, you are able to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on these areas, effectively preventing these diseases. Do so by checking the condition of the wooden parts of your poultry housing structures.