Request due to outbreak of avian influenza
The BC SPCA is asking the public to temporarily remove backyard bird feeders and empty bird baths due to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which is spreading across the country.
Avian influenza – or “bird flu” – is a virus that can affect many different species of birds. This includes farm animals such as chickens and turkeys, but can also affect wild birds and pets. The H5N1 strain is considered highly pathogenic, causing severe disease and death in birds.
Although waterfowl (including ducks, geese and gulls) and birds of prey (eagles, hawks and owls) are at greatest risk, avian influenza viruses can infect all species of birds. The virus is excreted from infected birds through feces and respiratory secretions and is very resistant – it can survive in the environment for several months and continue to infect other birds.
“Bird feeders can be places to spread disease because they promote unnatural flocks of birds and attract other wildlife,” said Dr. Andrea Wallace, wildlife welfare manager for BC SPCA. “Fallen seeds are also a particularly dangerous source of disease – when birds feed from the ground, they are also exposed to feces that accumulate under the feeder. She says the availability of bird feeders and baths can also increase the risk of transmitting the virus to nearby animals, such as backyard chickens or turkeys.
“In rare cases, the virus can also cause disease in people who have been in close contact with infected birds or heavily contaminated areas,” Wallace added. “We have to do everything we can to stop H5N1.
Wallace says that in addition to removing bird feeders and emptying bird baths, the BC SPCA is asking the public to monitor the environment for any signs of sick birds. “Birds may appear lethargic, unusually” swollen, “have nasal secretions, or have excessive tearing or swelling of the head and eyelids.
The public is asked to report sightings of sick or dead wild birds to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) on 1-800-567-2033. If the report is deemed to require further examination, a biologist may retrieve the carcass for further examination. “Please do not bring dead birds to a wildlife rehabilitation center or veterinary clinic, as they will not be able to test for the disease,” Wallace said.
Wallace notes that while hummingbird feeders pose the lowest risk because they are species-specific and have a smaller group of birds that visit them, it is important to change nectar regularly and clean hummingbirds to prevent deadly fungal infections. outbreaks. And remember, if you see sick birds on your feeder, take it down immediately!
For more information visit spca.bc.ca.
Leading image: Red-winged blackbird at the feeder. Photo by Jesse McFarland
Submitted by BKDPPD
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