Alberta seeing more avian flu cases in wild birds heading into migratory season

Avian flu cases are up as migratory birds head south. (CTV News Edmonton/Amanda Anderson)

As the seasons change and birds fly south to warmer climates, you might see some of them acting a bit odd, showing symptoms of avian flu.

Alberta’s environment ministry said the number of cases in wild birds has gone up from three in August to 41 in September.

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“The number of cases confirmed so far is relatively consistent with the past three years, all of which saw an increase in confirmed cases during the fall,” said a statement from the ministry. “That’s when waterfowl and shorebirds pass through Alberta and share the viruses with local wild birds which may not have the same level of immunity.”

Avian flu is a pathogenic virus, transmitting primarily through fluids and feces, said WILDNorth, a local animal rescue organization.

“When you have a large number of birds that are in close proximity to each other and they’re contacting each other, this is how it sort of spreads,” said Dale Gienow of WILDNorth.

Symptoms of avian flu include swimming or flying in tight circles, swaying or bobbing heads as if drunk, and cloudy eyes.

Gienow said he has been getting six to 12 calls a day about suspected avian flu, particularly in west Edmonton.

There are some hot spots where the geese have congregated in large numbers – geese and ducks in particular – where that disease seems more prevalent.

Although the name of the disease suggests that it only affects birds, mammals are also known to catch avian flu, which can be fatal in animals.

Gienow said it’s uncommon for pets to get avian flu, but it’s still wise to keep your animals on a leash if walking in an area where a lot of birds congregate.

Humans should avoid touching feathers, practice good hygiene and to keep pets away from bird feces.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Amanda Anderson