The M.D. of Bonnyville is urging the public to avoid handling live or dead birds after Avian Influenza has been identified as the cause of death for Canada Geese found on the shore of Jessie Lake within the Town of Bonnyville last month.
While Lakelandtoday.ca is awaiting comment from the Town of Bonnyville, the M.D. issued a press release Friday, Aug. 8 citing the incident and identifying Avian Influenza as the cause. It also stated it is not aware of any confirmed cases of the disease in the M.D. at this time.
“In general, members of the public should avoid handling live or dead wild birds,” the M.D.’s Agricultural Services Department advised. “If handling can't be avoided, wear disposable gloves, place a plastic bag over your hand before picking up the dead bird, or shuffle the dead bird into a box or container without touching it (for example, use a stick to move the bird). Wash your hands with soap and water and disinfect any surfaces that have come into contact with dead birds using alcohol, diluted bleach, or commercial disinfectants.”
The news release also asks the public to report clusters or groups of dead waterfowl or raptors (hawks, owls, falcons), corvids (ravens, magpies, crows) or gulls by calling the provincial government toll free line at 310-0000 followed by 780-427-3448.
“Avian Influenza primarily effects waterfowl (ducks, geese, etc.), and can spread to domestic poultry (turkeys, ducks, chickens).
“While head tremors and limp neck are common signs of Avian Influenza in sick wild birds, signs of Avian Flu in domestic birds can include:
• Drop in production of eggs/soft shells/eggs without shells
• High and sudden mortality rate
• Quietness and extreme depression
• Swelling of the skin under the eyes
• Swelling/congestion of wattles and combs
Concerns about dead Canada Geese found along Jessie Lake prompted the Town of Bonnyville to issue a public advisory on July 23, urging people to avoid the area and not to approach any geese.
Jessie Lake is bordered on its north end by the Town of Bonnyville, and by agricultural land to the south.
“For more information concerning Avian Influenza, visit alberta.ca/avian-influenza-reportable.aspx. Outbreaks in domestic poultry should be reported both federally at inspection.canada.ca and provincially at alberta.ca/office-of-the-chief-provincial-veterinarian.”
