What are the symptoms of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Wild birds?
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) can cause serious illness or death in wild birds, and it’s important to know what to watch for and how to respond safely. You might notice one or more of the following signs: unusual behavior (e.g., lack of coordination, tremors, inability to fly or walk), twisting of the neck or head, sudden death, especially in groups of birds, swollen head, eyelids, or comb, or discharge from the nose or mouth.
If you find a bird showing these symptoms it is best to call Le Nichoir 450-458-2809 or the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs 1-877-346-6763 before trying to capture the bird for more instructions.
Can I touch wild birds with my hands?
Yes, you can touch a wild bird with your hands. We strongly suggest washing your hands well after touching a wild bird to help minimize any possible disease or parasite transmission.
Remember that it is an old wise tale that if you touch a young bird the parents will not take it back. Parents will not abandon a bird touched by humans.
Can I get sick by touching a wild bird and is it safe to handle it?
It is important to wear the proper protective equipment (PPE) when touching any wild animal. This includes gloves, mask and any other equipment that will keep you safe. After capturing a bird, wash your hands well. Change into another set of clothing, especially if you have domestic animals or poultry at home to avoid contamination.
Can humans get infected by avian Influenza or other animal diseases?
Zoonotics are diseases and parasites that can be transmitted from animals to humans. While fewer wildlife diseases are easily transmitted to humans from wild birds it is important to realize that such risks still exist. Pet bird owners must be additionally careful to protect their pets since they are more at risk than mammal pets.
I found a wild bird with crusty eyes. Can I bring him to Le Nichoir?
If you think you’ve found a bird with conjunctivitis (swollen, crusty, or closed eyes), it’s important to act promptly but carefully. This is very important, especially if it’s a finch or house sparrow, which are commonly affected by Mycoplasma gallisepticum, a contagious bacterial infection.
Contain the bird only if safe to do so: Use a towel or gloves to gently place the bird in a ventilated box or a pet carrier lined with paper towels. Keep it in a quiet, dark place indoors and away from pets and people. Do not offer food or water nor try to do a physical examination. Bring the bird to Le Nichoir (637 Main, Hudson).
Le Nichoir will assess whether the bird needs treatment, isolation, or humane euthanasia if suffering.