MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre warning bird flu may be back in the Comox Valley

Comox Valley residents are being asked to keep their eyes out for strangely acting birds. 

MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre is warning Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, may be back in the Comox Valley after a video was posted to social media of a Canada goose acting strangely. 

The video showed the bird showing no signs of visible physical injuries but was acting wobbly and disoriented. 

The observant member called the team at MARS, and a volunteer arrived minutes later to grab the bird and bring it to the rescue centre. 

MARS is asking the public to watch out for any strangely acting birds now to try and limit the spread of wild and domestic populations in the area. 

Signs of bird flu include wobbling, head and neck tilting and twisting, paralysis, seizures, inability to properly stand or flap wings, diarrhea, regurgitation, sneezing, blue ‘hazy’ eyes, and unexplained emaciation. 

Anyone who sees any strangely acting birds they suspect have bird flu is asked to call the MARS Wildlife Hospital at 250-337-2021. 

Nathan Maley
Nathan Maley
Born and raised in Nanaimo, Nathan is passionate about sharing local stories with the communities where he grew up. When he’s not working, he can often be found on the court playing ball hockey, spending time with friends and family, or relaxing with a good movie.

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