What is the most common cause of frounce in raptors?

Frounce, also known as trichomoniasis, is primarily caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas gallinae. This parasite is most commonly found in pigeons and doves, which can serve as its primary reservoirs. Raptors, such as hawks and falcons, often develop frounce after consuming infected prey, particularly these birds.

While other food sources such as rabbits, chicken hearts, and lean, washed red meat can be part of a raptor's diet, they do not serve as primary carriers of the trichomoniasis parasite. Pigeons and doves are frequently present in many raptor habitats and are often the most accessible prey, which increases the likelihood that a raptor will ingest the parasite when consuming these birds. This is why the consumption of pigeons and doves is considered the most common cause of frounce in raptors.