Acute copper toxicosis in the Canada goose

Area of Science:

• Avian Pathology
• Toxicology
• Wildlife Health

Background:

• Copper sulfate is a common algaecide and pesticide, posing a risk to wildlife if ingested.
• Avian species are susceptible to copper toxicosis, with varying tolerance levels.
• Understanding the pathological effects of acute copper poisoning in wild birds is crucial for conservation and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the pathological findings of acute copper toxicosis in Canada geese (Branta canadensis).
• To correlate observed lesions with known effects of copper poisoning in avian species.
• To identify the source and dose of copper sulfate responsible for the toxicosis.

Main Methods:

• Case study of Canada geese exhibiting clinical signs post-ingestion.
• Necropsy and histopathological examination of affected organs.
• Estimation of ingested copper sulfate dose based on environmental contamination.

Main Results:

• Ingestion of approximately 600mg/kg of copper sulfate led to acute toxicosis.
• Primary pathological changes included necrosis and sloughing of the proventriculus and gizzard.
• A distinct greenish discoloration of the lungs was observed.

Conclusions:

• Acute copper sulfate ingestion at high doses is lethal to Canada geese.
• The observed lesions are characteristic of copper toxicosis in avian species.
• Contaminated water sources on game farms pose a significant risk to wild waterfowl.