Suspected Permethrin-Containing Powder Bath Poisoning in a Flock of Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus)

Generally, birds are less sensitive to pyrethrins and pyrethroids compared to mammals; however, suspected permethrin toxicosis was fatal in seven mountain quails (<i>Oreortyx pictus</i>) treated with a permethrin-containing powder bath. Signs started appearing 3 days after the bath was placed in their enclosure and were non-specific with reduced activity and ruffled feathers. Unusually, the characteristic signs of permethrin poisoning were not observed, and infective causes of the birds' clinical signs were ruled out. A histopathological evaluation, however, revealed the malfunctioning of the liver and kidneys; the liver appeared mottled and degenerated, while the kidneys were enlarged and marbled, showing signs of degeneration. Furthermore, characteristic changes were found in the hematological analysis. Specific therapy and antidotes to pyrethrin are not available; the treatment is only supportive, including hepatoprotective agents and vitamin therapy.