Avian Influenza is in the Tri-Cities
BMW assisted the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in testing four birds for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). The birds were found in the Tri-Cities area and either died or were euthanized because they exhibited symptoms consistent with HPAI. All four birds tested positive at the WDFW lab. The results will be confirmed at the National Veterinary Services Laboratory. HPAI has also been detected in western Oregon. To learn more about the occurrence of HPAI visit the USDA APHIS website.
All birds are susceptible to avian influenza, but HPAI has been detected in water fowl, shorebirds, raptors and scavengers. Domestic poultry are highly susceptible. If you have domestic poultry it is recommended that they be separated by species and be kept indoors if at all possible. If you acquire new birds they should be quarantined for three weeks before being added to your current birds.
Humans are not susceptible to HPAI but we can spread it to healthy birds if we are exposed to the virus and then make contact with other birds. Exposure can be as simple as walking through an area where sick birds have roosted. For this reason, BMW’s Pendleton center continues to be closed to the public.
The Week in Review: the Babies are Growing
Black-billed Magpie 22-140
Red-winged Blackbird 22-156
The Great Horned Owlets & American Kestrels have been moved to hack sites where they will be allowed to fledge.
Burrowing Owl 22-195
This little owl was found near Boardman during a survey of Burrowing Owls. He has a healed fracture of the left femur. Although the leg is slightly crooked, he is a normal weight, indicating he is able to use his foot and leg normally. He was returned to his burrow so he could continue providing for his mate and soon to hatch young.
