Province warns of avian flu risk as temperatures rise in Saskatchewan

WATCH: With the return of migratory birds in Sask., the Ministry of Environment is reminding people to look out for signs of Avian flu. Damian Smith reports.

Spring is bringing many things to Saskatchewan – warmer weather, construction, but also the threat of avian flu as migratory birds return to the province.

Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Environment is reminding the public to be on the lookout for the signs of avian flu – also known as “bird flu.”

According to the province, infection is common among Saskatchewan’s wild bird population – with the poultry industry being hit especially hard in 2022.

“In recent years, with this novel strain, it’s actually causing more significant mortality in wild bird populations and domestic poultry than other strains,” wildlife health specialist Iga Stasiak explained.

“We certainly want members of the public to keep an eye out for any signs of sick or dead birds.”

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According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, there have been 46 infected premises in Saskatchewan – impacting a total of 751,000 birds. However, there are no current outbreaks in the province.

In a post to social media, Salthaven West Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre says it is receiving several calls daily about avian flu in snow and Canadian geese in Regina and across southern Saskatchewan.

The organization was sure to note that it cannot admit or transport animals if they are showing symptoms due to the risk of transmission to other patients in its care.

“So, in those most severe cases, you’re going to see respiratory signs. So, you might see gasping nasal ocular discharge and neurological symptoms,” Stasiak added.

“So, things like twisted necks abnormal behavior, disorientation – those types of symptoms."

Waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and corvids are also some birds that may carry the virus. Foxes, skunks and even pets can easily carry it as well.

As for humans, the risk is classified as low - according to the ministry of health.

If you should come across a dead bird, the ministry encourages residents to report it or contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative here.