Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in kori bustards (Ardeotis kori)

Pseudomonas aeruginosa associated upper respiratory tract infections occurred in a flock of 19 juvenile kori bustards. Morbidity was 32% and all birds recovered after parenteral treatment with combinations of enrofloxacin, gentamicin and piperacillin, although gentamicin toxicity was suspected in one bird. A marked haemoresponse occurred 3-10 days after the onset of clinical signs and included leukocytosis, heterophilia, monocytosis and thrombocytosis. Predisposing factors to infection included recent translocation, changes to flock size, extreme temperatures and age.