Time to take down bird feeders to prevent the spread of Avian flu
Avian flu is caused by a contagious viral infection that can affect domestic and wild birds throughout the world. Many strains occur naturally in wild birds and circulate in migratory bird populations. The highly pathogenic avian influenza can cause mass disease and mortality in infected poultry. Large poultry producing farms and regions are at greatest risk of a large number of animal deaths and economic loss due to the spreading of infection. As of yet, there have been no known human cases of avian influenza resulting from exposure to wild birds in North America.
It is possible for Avian flu to be passed between wild birds at bird feeders who then can pass it on to poultry farms and migratory birds. Currently, winter is gradually winding down, the snow is disappearing, and the ground is opening up to the bird-feeding activity.
Therefore, there is no need for we humans to continue using bird feeders to feed birds in our backyards and increase the chance of spreading the nasty virus.
In recent weeks, there have been cases reported in the western part of the province in geese and poultry. The known infection numbers may be lower than expected due to a milder winter which has meant that birds have not congregated as much as they might in colder and snowier conditions.
If people observe possibly infected wild birds, it is important they report a sick or dead bird to the Nova Scotia wildlife emergency hotline – 1-800565-2224, or the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1-800-567-2033.
Following are additional measures provided by the Federal Government in relation to birds and Avian flu: Clean backyard bird feeders and baths regularly using a weak solution of domestic bleach (10% sodium hypochlorite), rinse well, and allow time to dry.
Do not touch or feed wild birds by hand; always follow safe handling practices.
Keep domestic birds separate from wild birds by minimizing contact between domestic and wild birds, especially if they have access to the outdoors or to bodies of water used by wild birds.
Conserve migratory bird habitat so birds with access to high-quality habitat and food will be more resilient to disease.
For more information on preventing the spread of avian influenza in wild birds - Canada.ca/avian-flu.