Avian influenza outbreak: BC SPCA asks public to remove bird feeders

The BC SPCA is asking the public to temporarily remove backyard bird feeders and empty bird baths to prevent the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Wild birds play a key role in the spread of HPAI. Although waterfowl (including ducks, geese and gulls) and raptors (eagles, hawks and owls) are highest risk, avian influenza viruses can infect all avian species.

The virus is shed by infected birds through feces and respiratory secretions. It is very resilient and can survive in the environment for several months and continue to infect other birds.

Bird feeders facilitate the spread of the disease by encouraging unnatural congregations of birds and attracting other wildlife including predators and rodents. Fallen seed is also an especially bad source of disease – when birds feed from the ground, they are also exposed to droppings that accumulate below a feeder. The presence of bird feeders and baths can also increase the risk of transmitting the virus between nearby animals like backyard chickens or turkeys.

Avian influenza – or “bird flu” – is a virus that can affect many different species of birds. This includes farm animals like chickens and turkeys, but can also affect pets and wild birds. The H5N1 strain is considered highly pathogenic, causing severe illness and death in birds. On rare occasions, this virus can cause disease in humans that have close contact with infected birds, or heavily contaminated areas, cautions BCSPCA.

Help curb this serious disease by removing your bird feeders and emptying bird baths as well as monitoring for any signs of sick birds in your area. Sick birds may appear lethargic, unusually “fluffed up”, have nasal discharge, or have excessively watery eyes or swelling of the head and eyelids. Contact the BC SPCA at 1-855-622-7722 for advice about sick birds or for help finding your local wildlife rehabilitation centre.