If you are interested in keeping, or raising, ducks or geese, you will want to be aware of some of the health concern that can be a problem for younger birds. You can negate some of these problems by buying vaccinated birds, and by keeping your birds in an uncrowded, clean, environment.

The health concerns are listed in alphabetical order, you may also wish to read more on health concerns common in adult ducks and geese.

Aspergillosis, also known as brooder pneumonia, is a fungus that thrives when conditions in the brooder are wet. Symptoms will include increased thirst, loss of appetite, failure to grow, the birds will look sick, and may have bad breath. This condition is best prevented by keeping the brooder dry, removing wet litter without disturbing surrounding litter – wet litter should be burnt. Prevent water from spilling as best you can and keep the brooder warm, ventilated, and dry.

Coccidiosis is a problem for many animals, it is a parasite that is spread through contact and can be carried on clothing, as such if you have young birds they should be tended to first thing to prevent bringing contamination to them. Symptoms may include failure to thrive, bloody diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, inability to stand, and death. This is more common in chickens who have a medicated feed to reduce the problems, however this feed is toxic to waterfowl.

Drowning is a risk in young ducklings or goslings. This is a risk for ducklings and goslings raised with their parents who have access to swimming water. Their feathers become waterlogged and they sink. Another risk, when they get older, is that they can get into the water, but cannot get out. If they have been splashing around they may lower the water level in a swimming tub so that they cannot get out – put rocks in any tub so they can climb up to get out.

Hepatitis is a contagious virus with a high death rate. Symptoms include lethargy, then the young bird may close its eyes and fall over, dying a few hours later, usually with their head drawn back. Prevention in areas where this is common is by vaccination. Keeping the brooder, feeder, and water, clean are vital.

Keel is also known as paratyphoid, which is caused by salmonella. Symptoms include shaking, gasping for air, sneezing, and a poor appearance overall. Unfortunately those birds who survive an outbreak should be considered carriers and could spread the problem to others. Keeping the brooder clean, washing well between broods, and washing dirty eggs, are key to preventing this health problem.

Newcastle Disease is characterized by birds that have twisting necks and appear to suffer from a cold, death is common.  It is caused by a virus and there is no treatment so prevention by vaccination is the best way of dealing with this concern.

New Duck Syndrome, or anatipestifer, and is a respiratory infection cause by bacteria. Symptoms include green diarrhea, depression, ruffled feathers, and the inability to stand up. Head bobbing and the appearance of having a cold are also common symptoms. As the disease progresses the bird may lay on its back with its feet in the air. Dehydration is common. Vaccination may be used to prevent this problem where it is common. Antibiotics are effective in some cases.

Omphalitis is a bacteria that attacks newly hatched birds. Their naval area will appear red. This condition may kill birds up to 2 weeks of age and is best prevented by keeping the brooder clean.

Be sure to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your young waterfowl are sick, and speak to your vet about what vaccinations are suggested in your area.