BC SPCA asking public to remove bird feeders because of avian flu outbreak
Duck having flight (supplied by Pixabay)
The BC SPCA is inquiring British Columbians to temporarily get down yard fowl feeders and fowl baths to help reduce the spread of avian flu.
“What we’re viewing is a extremely pathogenic avian influenza has been spreading throughout the continent,” reported Dr. Andrea Wallace, Supervisor for Wild Animal Welfare with the BC SPCA.
“We’re observing a lot more verified and suspected circumstances of avian flu in BC.”
Wallace states wild birds, these as waterfowl (ducks and geese), and raptors (hawks and eagles) are at the greatest chance for the virus, but it impacts all bird species.
“That includes pet birds, farm animals like chickens and turkeys, and it’s not out of the realm of likelihood it would also effects the birds that you see at feeders,” Wallace spelled out.
“Bird feeders really encourage an unnatural congregation of birds, and they draw in other wildlife, including predators and rodents. Even while, raptors might not be feeding at fowl feeders, they will be captivated to bird feeders, due to the fact they’ll be hunting rodents and other birds that are feeding at all those feeders.”
She included fallen seed is an specifically negative source of ailment, as birds are uncovered to fallen droppings below a feeder.
“The existence of these chicken feeders and fowl baths, that maximize the action close to them, also increases the risk of transmitting the virus concerning other animals.”
Wallace claimed the BC SPCA is also reminding the community to be vigilant for the virus, and look at out for any sick birds.
“Sick birds could look lethargic, they can look like they’re fluffed up, they may well have nasal discharge, or possibly even excessively watery eyes or swelling of the head and eyelids,” Wallace explained.
To prevent catching the virus, Wallace recommends retaining your distance from your birds.
“If you do not require to interact with the bird, do not,” Wallace claimed.
“Make confident that if you are interacting that you are shielding on your own and the bird, the safety goes both equally means. It’s possible carrying gloves or perhaps a mask, and also making use of a towel or some other barrier concerning oneself and the chicken if you are owning to pick just one up.”
The general public is requested to report any ill or dead wild birds to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.
