[Botulism in waterfowl (author's transl)].

In view of the annually recurrent outbreaks of botulism among waterfowl in the Netherlands, an eradication programme was developed, in which particularly the provincial watermanagement services, in co-operation with the municipalities, are involved. By exchanging information with the Central Veterinary Institute, which acts as the diagnostic centre of the country, a fairly complete picture of the mortality-rate is gained. The hot summers of 1975 en 1976 accounted for the majority of casualties. Annual mortality is highest among mallards and hybrid ducks. The disease mainly occurs in urban areas in the western part of the Netherlands. The requirements for a positive diagnosis are stated and explained. In addition to the environmental and public health aspects of botulism in waterfowl, the veterinary aspects are referred to.