A recent article from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology provides valuable insights and helpful advice for bird enthusiasts amidst the avian influenza outbreak.
Understanding Avian Flu (HPAI): Impacts on Wild Birds and Precautions for Humans
The ongoing outbreak of avian influenza (HPAI), caused by the H5N1 strain, has been affecting a wide variety of birds and some mammals worldwide since 2022. Known for its severe impact on domestic poultry, this disease has also been detected in various wild species, including waterfowl, raptors, shorebirds, and songbirds. While the outbreak has raised concerns, especially regarding the safety of feeding wild birds, it’s important to understand the key details and take the necessary precautions.
Avian Flu in Wild Birds
Migratory waterfowl, such as Snow Geese, are the primary carriers of avian flu. The virus spreads through infected birds’ saliva, mucus, and feces, and it can be passed on to other birds through ingestion or inhalation. Raptors and poultry are particularly vulnerable, often suffering high mortality rates, while songbirds and other feeder visitors are less likely to contract or transmit the virus.
Songbirds and the Low Risk of Transmission
Despite the virus's wide spread among waterfowl and raptors, songbirds have a relatively low risk of contracting avian flu. Only 3% of reported wild bird cases involved songbirds, according to USDA APHIS surveillance data. These birds do not shed large amounts of the virus and thus aren’t significant contributors to the disease’s spread. Therefore, unless you keep domestic poultry, there’s no need to remove bird feeders. However, cleaning bird feeders and baths regularly remains a good practice to prevent other diseases.
Precautions for Backyard Poultry Owners
While the risk to songbirds remains low, it is essential for poultry owners to prevent any potential cross-contamination between wild birds and domestic flocks. Some key measures include:
Making food and water inaccessible to wild birds
Keeping poultry indoors or separated from wild birds
Practicing strict hygiene, including washing hands and changing clothes before tending to poultry
As an additional measure, removing bird feeders or keeping them far from the poultry area is recommended.
How to Handle Sick or Dead Birds
If you find a sick or dead bird, it's crucial to avoid handling it directly. Instead, contact your local wildlife health agency to determine the cause of death and arrange for testing. If contact is unavoidable, wear gloves and a face mask, place the bird in a double-bagged garbage bag, and thoroughly wash your hands afterward. Pet birds and animals should also be kept away from the infected birds to prevent the spread of the virus.
Avian Flu in Mammals
Avian influenza has also been detected in mammals, such as red foxes, skunks, and even bears, likely due to consuming infected birds. Additionally, reports have emerged of avian flu affecting farmed mink and marine mammals in other countries. While transmission to humans remains rare, it’s important to exercise caution when handling sick or dead birds and follow health advisories.
Conclusion
The outbreak of avian influenza, while concerning, poses a low risk to most wild songbirds and does not significantly threaten public health. For those who keep poultry, implementing biosecurity measures is crucial in preventing potential transmission. Always stay informed by following guidance from trusted sources like the CDC and USDA, and take the necessary precautions to protect both wildlife and your domestic flocks.
Read the full article here: Avian Influenza Outbreak: Should You Take Down Your Bird Feeders?