By Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge
NANTICOKE — Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge is getting an influx of calls for waterfowl and birds of prey with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
This extremely lethal disease is predominantly seen in waterfowl such as ducks and geese, but can be transmitted to scavengers such as birds of prey, foxes, coyotes, and raccoons.
It can also spread to dogs and cats, as well as humans.
Please keep your pets away from dead or sick waterfowl. If you encounter seemingly sick animals who are birds or scavengers who show symptoms such as uncontrolled head movements, lethargy, runny nose/eyes, and/or diarrhea, contact your local animal control.
If you do choose to assist a sick animal, such as the ones mentioned, please be sure to wear proper personal protective equipment such as gloves and a mask to ensure you are not exposed to this illness.
If you encounter a large number of sick/dead birds, please report it to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at cwhc-rcsf.ca/report_and_submit.php.
Find resources related to Avian Influenza at cwhc-rcsf.ca/avian_influenza_resources.php.
Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge works to rehabilitate sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife from its Nanticoke property, with recent expansions allowing them to assist up to 4,500 animals a year. For more information, visit hobbitstee.com. Follow them on Facebook for regular updates and insights into their work.
