MNR warns of salmonella in birds

The Ministry of Natural Resources is advising the public to use caution in handling birds and birdfeeders after receiving confirmation of salmonellosis in some wild birds in parts of Ontario.
The Canadian Co-operative Wildlife Health Centre at the University of Guelph has recently confirmed salmonellosis in bird specimens from the Grey-Bruce area. The disease has also been confirmed in wild birds in Guelph, London, Peterborough and Geraldton. Other suspected cases have been reported in the Pembroke and north Simcoe Country areas. Bird species affected so far are the common redpoll, American goldfinch, pine grosbeak, house sparrow and pine siskin.
Salmonellosis is a disease which is typically found in the digestive tract and shed through feces. It can be spread in the wild bird population through infected birds at feeders. While the risk is low, the disease may spread to people through the improper handling of dead bird specimens or by not taking precautions when loading and cleaning feeders.
To prevent the spread of salmonellosis, people should
• Wear rubber gloves if handling dead birds or cleaning feeders or bird baths.
• Disinfect bird feeders and bird baths using a 10 per cent chlorine bleach solution and 90 per cent water to minimize the spread to other wild birds, rinse with clear water and dry feeders before adding feed.
• Use a bucket to wash birdfeeders, do not use the kitchen sink
• Use a scoop or wear gloves when handling feed or loading feeders.
• Always wash hands with warm soapy water following these activities.
Cats and dogs may get sick from eating birds that are dying or have died from salmonellosis. Pet owners should contact their veterinarians if they suspect their domestic animals have been affected by the disease.
The source of salmonellosis is undetermined. It is a common disease in birds in winter. The most recent major outbreak of the disease occurred in 1998. Redpolls were the principal species affected, and the disease was confined in locations from northern Saskatchewan to the Maritimes and south into the midwestern and northeastern United States.
The public is asked to report dead or sick bird sightings to their local Ministry of Natural Resources office or to the Canadian Co-operative Wildlife Health Centre. People with health questions should contact their local health unit.