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.

Continue Reading

cfcp Now playing play

Related Articles

Latest News

B.C.’s new time zone could cause confusion for businesses, travellers, say experts

Most of British Columbia stayed on daylight saving time Sunday, completing its move to permanent daylight time, but experts warn the change may create some confusion for businesses and travellers.

New lease on life for local seagull thanks to search and rescue

One of Comox Valley Search and Rescue’s most recent calls proves no call is too big, too small or too unusual for local crews.

BC Ferries commits to halving underwater noise by 2036

BC Ferries has partnered with Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Transport Canada to reduce the risk of harming marine mammals.

De Havilland Canada reaches $2.5B financing deal to double waterbomber production

De Havilland Canada has reached an agreement with the federal government and Export Development Canada (EDC) for up to $2.5 billion in financing to double production capacity for its Canadair 515 waterbombers.

Doctors, advocates fear end of safer supply under new B.C. Conservative government

Harm-reduction advocates say they are bracing for a possible increase in overdose deaths and more stress on the health-care system if the incoming B.C. Conservative government follows through on its pledge to end safer supply in the province.