Which bird is described as transmitting several livestock diseases?

• A. Pigeon
• B. Starling
• C. Canada Goose
• D. Crow

Answer: (B)

Birds can spread diseases to livestock when their droppings, saliva, or disturbed feed contaminate feeds, water, and equipment. European starlings are especially problematic because they form enormous roosts around farmyards and feed on stored grain. That close, constant presence means their feces and contaminated feed quickly mix with what livestock consume, creating opportunities for a range of pathogens to move between birds and animals. This combination of high numbers and frequent contact with feed and water makes starlings a leading example of a bird that transmits several livestock diseases. While other birds can carry disease too, the starling’s behavior and proximity to livestock operations make it particularly associated with spreading a variety of health risks.