A growing number of bird flu cases in BC prompted the BC branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to ask residents take down bird feeders and empty bird baths..The SPCA reports the presence of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in the country. Cases are spreading quickly across Canada and there are confirmed cases in BC..The BC SPCA is asking the public to temporarily remove backyard bird feeders and empty bird baths to prevent the spread of the disease.."Bird feeders facilitate the spread of the disease by encouraging unnatural congregations of birds and attracting other wildlife including predators and rodents," the SPCA said in a Thursday press release.."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." .The H5N1 bird flu strain has been found in at least five flocks in BC..It's believed the virus spreads via infected wild birds flying north for the summer, and is shed through feces and respiratory secretions that could persist in the environment for months..Dr. Andrea Wallace, manager of wild animal welfare for the SPCA, said bird feeders and bird baths can be another disease vector spreading bird flu to backyard poultry..“Bird feeders can be sites for disease spread because they encourage unnatural congregations of birds and attract other wildlife,” Wallace said in a statement..The SPCA said the virus — on rare occasions — can cause disease in humans who have close contact with infected birds.."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.
