Avian flu...

Avian flu is in the news, and we have received some questions regarding how we can help our feathered friends at the feeders. The latest strain of avian influenza, or bird flu, is the H5N1 strain. This strain is considered highly pathogenic to many species, including poultry, waterfowl, and raptors; however, it is rare for songbirds to contract the highly pathogenic strain. The highly pathogenic strain is often referred to as HPAI (highly pathogenic avian influenza). On the occasion that songbirds do contract the virus, it is usually considered low pathogenic (LPAI) and could result in a minor illness (per USDA).

So what’s a bird lover to do? Current recommendations do not advise taking down feeders UNLESS you also have poultry flock since poultry are more susceptible than songbirds to the viral load. It’s also important to regularly clean feeders with a diluted bleach solution of 1:10. This means that for every part bleach, you should use 9 parts water. Since the virus is shed through saliva, feces, and mucus, it is recommended to wear gloves and a mask when handling feeders. Human transmission is rare but there are additional recommended precautions for those who keep poultry or monitor waterfowl nesting boxes.

If you do notice a sick bird at your feeder, it’s probably a good idea to remove the feeder for a couple weeks and to clean it well. At Caw Caw Interpretive Center, we are following these recommendations until further notice. We will update procedures if any new recommendations are put forth by USFWS or SCDNR.

Please remember to avoid direct contact with any dead birds encountered! Dead birds may be double bagged wearing gloves and disposed of in the trash. If multiple dead birds are encountered, however, please contact SCDNR to report your findings.