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My bird's water has a white worm. Is it a parasite and harmful to me?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | 2 lbs

Okay so I think my bird has a parasite in his water bowl and I don't wanna touch it because I don't like germs and stuff but I dumped his water out and refilled it and it was floating in there. It's long white and then some legs come off of the end. Is it harmful to me :/ please answer fast

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on May 22nd, 2017

Unfortunately, I can not really see anything in the picture. But, based on your description of a long white wormy like creature, it could very well be a tape worm. I know you are squeamish with gross stuff, but bringing in a fecal sample for analysis to your veterinarian will help diagnose this problem. A dewormer, either oral or injectable, can usually resolve these issues before they get out of hand. Depending on the type of tapeworm, some of these are transmissible to people but is generally uncommon. Just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your bird or any of its droppings.

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