Tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium (M.) avium is one of the most significant diseases affecting domestic and wild birds. This mycobacterium is quite resistant to external conditions and the development of the disease is favored by poor animal hygiene conditions and poor production practices. It primarily causes infection of the digestive system in birds, but it can also cause respiratory signs. Diagnosis is difficult due to the intracellular development of mycobacteria, its resistance in the environment and antibiotic resistance. The gold standard for diagnostics is detection of mycobacteria by bacteriological examination. M. avium has a high zoonotic potential, but does not cause disease in a healthy adult. Special precautions are recommended for immunocompromised persons and workers who are in contact with infected birds, carcasses and biological material. The disease in humans is usually respiratory, characterized by symptoms similar to pneumonia. Therapy in birds and humans are different antimicrobial agents. There is no approved vaccine for use against M. avium in birds, therefore it is recommended to carry out a tuberculin test on new animals on arrival at the farm, mandatory quarantine, improvement of zoohygienic conditions and limitation of any contact with wild birds and animals.