Atlantic Wildlife Institute warns of bird flu in New Brunswick

The Atlantic Wildlife Institute is reporting a case of avian flu in New Brunswick.

The Atlantic Wildlife Institute (AWI) in New Brunswick is reporting its first case of avian flu, more commonly known as bird flu, for this year after a red-breasted merganser was found in Shediac in late February.

The institute shared the news on social media on Sunday saying, while the bird was alive upon arrival, it died in quarantine just a short time later.

“This bird could not be helped but at least removing her from the environment saved the potential spread to others in her flock, to predatory birds/mammals and domestic animals,” the post reads.

The animal was sent to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) in Prince Edward Island where testing confirmed a preliminary positive.

Dr. Megan Jones, the regional director of CWHC Atlantic, says the AVC Virology lab can only report out cases as non-negative and that the bird showed clinical signs that sounded consistent with the disease.

Official confirmation has to come from the CFIA NCGAD lab in Winnipeg.

“This bird was found right around the same time as a large die off of Canada Geese on P.E.I. was detected. ‘As the crow flies,’ the merganser was found just across the Northumberland Strait from the incident on the island,” said the Atlantic Wildlife Institute’s social media post.

“There have also been new cases this year in wild birds in Newfoundland and wild and domestic birds in Nova Scotia. So, the virus is still very active in our region.”

Nature NB, which represents a collection of nature clubs in the province and also does educational and conservation work, says everyone can play a role in keeping the spread to a minimum.

“In terms of birders here in New Brunswick, I think just keeping an eye on the flock, noticing any weird behaviour at your bird feeder and if there is, maybe reporting that to the Canadian Health Inspection Agency,” said Vanessa Roy-McDougall, the executive director.

“With any bird feeding folks, I always suggest to clean their bird feeders regularly, every two weeks, and that will at least contain the spread if there is one.”

Roy-McDougall says Nature NB frequently gets questions around avian flu in the spring and fall since that’s when people use feeders most often.

“I think nature lovers across the province are kind of like eyes on the ground and they’re probably the first folks to really notice if there’s a change in behaviour,” she said. “And people are outside watching their feeders every single day, so if they’re going to notice something, they’re probably going to notice it first.”

“It’s a really good way for New Brunswickers to remain vigilant and report that activity if they do see any.”

However, even people without bird feeders should be aware of the situation and how to handle it.

“If you are going to retrieve (to bring to a rehab facility), use gloves, a disposable container and wash your hands, clothes and shoes afterwards, including the vehicle,” said AWI.

“Do not let your pets sniff, pick up or play with a dying or dead animal that you may come across. Avian flu has the potential of infecting mammals as well, as its track record confirms.”

Maritimers are also encouraged to call a local DNR ranger office or federal agents if you see five or more wild animals in one location in distress.

The institute says farmers and those with domestic birds should stay vigilant in keeping their flocks safe by keeping everything clean, not feeding wildlife and trying to keep them separated.

For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.