Diazinon poisoning in pigeons
Pennycott, T.W.
Veterinary Record 138(4): 96
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 8650900 Document Number: 459987
Three pigeon fanciers were supplied with an unnamed liquid in an unlabelled container, declared to be 1% ivermectin, to treat ectoparasites on their pigeons. In 2 cases ataxia or sternal recumbency were seen in 30 of 130 young birds a few hours after treatment with the diluted liquid; 3 birds died. In the third case, the liquid was diluted in propylene glycol and used to treat approximately 100 young pigeons and adult birds. No mortality, ataxia or paralysis was seen but egg production by 3 adult pigeons was delayed for 17 to 18 days and their moulting patterns were interrupted. Analysis of the liquid showed that it contained 413 mg diazinon/ml. The report highlights the potential threat of medicinal products of uncertain origin provided in unlabelled containers.