Trichomonas infection in birds such as Falcons is commonly acquired from contact with which bird species?

• A. Pigeons
• B. Sparrows
• C. Ducks
• D. Ravens

Answer: (A)

Trichomonas infection in falcons is acquired when they ingest infected prey. The protozoan Trichomonas gallinae naturally resides in pigeons (and other columbiform birds), where it is shed in saliva and crop contents. When a falcon catches and eats an infected pigeon, the trophozoites colonize the falcon’s upper digestive tract, causing trichomoniasis. Pigeons are the most common source because they are abundant, frequently infected, and serve as the primary prey for many falcons. While sparrows, ducks, or ravens can harbor the parasite, they are not the typical or most frequent source of transmission for falcons. Therefore, contact with pigeons is the common route of infection.