The
gapeworm (Syngamus trachea) is a parasitic nematode worm of the family Syngamidae, that lives in the trachea of birds and causes gapes in domestic fowl. Infection may occur directly by the ingestion of infective eggs or larvae; however, severe field infection is associated with ingestion of transport hosts such as earthworms, snails, slugs, and arthropods. Although gapeworms are not a problem in confinement-reared poultry, they cause serious economic losses in game farm pens, and in range reared chickens, pheasants, turkeys, and peacocks. Cyathostoma bronchialis is the gapeworm for geese and ducks.
Symptoms:
- Birds continually yawning, or gasping for air.
- Constant shaking of the head.
Treatments: