The cause of death for Canadian Geese and other birds found around Jessie Lake has been confirmed as Avian Influenza.
The town of Bonnyville was notified in July of birds either found deceased or showing signs of illness along the lake. Alberta Fish and Wildlife was contacted and confirmed Avian Influenza was the cause.
“Avian Influenza, sometimes referred to as avian flu, is a contagious viral disease that affects many domestic and wild bird species,” reads the towns release. “According to the Government of Alberta, the risk to the public from the current strains of avian flu is low. Avian Influenza primarily affects waterfowl (ducks, geese, etc.), and can spread to domestic poultry (turkey, ducks, chickens).”
Clean-up efforts being led by Bonnyville Public Works are ongoing and being addressed as time and resources allow. Residents are urged not to handle live or dead wild birds, but if it is unavoidable, precautions should be taken.
Wear disposable gloves or use a plastic bag before touching the bird, use a stick or similar tool to move the bird into a bag to be placed into a garbage bin for disposal. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward, and disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with the bird.
Clusters or groups of dead waterfowl should be reported at 310-0000. More information on avian flu can be found at alberta.ca or inspection.canada.ca.
