Currently, it is still safe to feed the birds in your backyard.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada and Birds Canada, “Avian Influenza does not affect all bird species in the same way; while it can cause severe illness and death in domestic poultry flocks, it is currently not considered a disease threat to feeder birds.” Link to their website HERE.
According to the Cornell University Wildlife Health Lab, “Passerines [song birds] do not seem susceptible to HPAI and are not thought to play a significant role in spreading this virus. We are not recommending removal of bird feeders at this point.”
And the Institute for Infectious and Zoonotic Diseases at U Penn Vet School states, “According to the USDA, there is no evidence that birdfeeders, or the birds that frequent them, contribute to the spread of HPAI.”
When it comes to the birds in your yard, be vigilant. Keep your bird feeders clean and filled with fresh food. Feeders should be cleaned at least once a month with a diluted bleach solution (1:9)
As the situation evolves, the provincial government may issue recommendations or guidance concerning bird feeders.
Wild birds that are most likely to carry or spread Avian Influenza are Gulls, Ducks, Geese, and Shorebirds.
Although the risk of transmission of avian influenza to humans is low, people should not touch dead birds or other wildlife with their bare hands. Protective eyewear and masks are recommended as an additional precaution. Hands should be thoroughly washed before and after with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If a dead bird has to be handled, gloves should be worn and the dead bird placed in a plastic bag.
Manitobans are asked to contact the TIP Line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076 if they find any of the following:
Clusters of six or more dead wild waterfowl (e.g., ducks, geese) or other water birds;
Any number of dead raptors or avian scavengers (e.g., ravens, crows, gulls); and
Groups of dead birds, such as more than 20 of any species
Find updates about Avian Influenza in Manitoba HERE.
