Avian TB found at the Esplanade
A popular Manawatu¯ park has been hit by a second disease problem in a fortnight, as a bird is found to have avian tuberculosis.
Temporary fencing has been erected around the Esplanade’s aviaries, where the diseased bird was found.
However, the fence does not have any warning signs about the disease.
It is the second problem at the park recently, as the Ministry of Primary Industries is already working to contain myrtle rust found on a young ramarama tree there.
Property and parks senior planner Aaron Phillips said people were at low risk of contracting avian tuberculosis, but those with compromised immune systems from conditions like HIV or other disorders had contracted the disease before.
The disease can cause weight loss, skin ulcers, decreased egg production, lameness and death in birds.
The council is working with Massey University veterinarians on a disease-management plan, including what to do with other birds in the aviaries.
Phillips said one thing they had to keep in mind was the plan to move the birds to the Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery centre, due to open in August.
Esplanade visitors can still view the quarantined birds, but should stay behind the fences, Phillips said.