Common diseases in backyard ducks and geese

Although chickens and turkeys comprise the majority of poultry species seen by the private practitioner, on occasion, backyard waterfowl such as ducks and geese, are also brought into the private practice setting. In order to treat our waterfowl patients expediently, it is important to be familiar with the common diseases often reported in backyard waterfowl species. As veterinarians, not only do we have to be familiar with common waterfowl diseases, but we also have to be aware of the environmental situations that may enhance some of these disease conditions.