CHEYENNE -- The detection of avian paramyxovirus, a viral disease that often affects doves and pigeons, was recently found in Wyoming.
Eurasian collared-doves from Casper, Green River, Riverton and Rock Springs tested positive for avian paramyxovirus, which can spread rapidly in areas where birds congregate and can cause large die-offs in pigeon and dove populations.
Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | Montana Untamed
"We detect this virus from time to time around the state," said Liz Wheeler, Wyoming Game and Fish Department wildlife disease biologist at the Game and Fish Wildlife Health Lab in Laramie.
Birds infected with this disease may exhibit neurological symptoms, diarrhea, weakness, respiratory distress or die quickly.
Samples were also tested and negative for avian influenza and Newcastle's disease, a more virulent strain of paramyxovirus.
People are also reading... City of Missoula unveils new proposed zoning map, sets open house Hot springs resort on Montana's Hi-Line hits market for $10.7M MCPS board trustee resigns, third turnover on board this year Business Buzz: Large new thrift stores open in Missoula; Starbucks to open on UM campus A teacher resigned after texts with students surfaced. Why didn't OPI know about it? Missoula County Public Schools ponders possibilities at Prescott Building With possible grizzly delisting on the horizon, FWP changes tone on bears Missoula urban camping tickets increase with fewer shelter beds Missoula proposed zoning reform allows more housing types to increase density Missoula man charged with hate crime in alleged assault over Star of David tattoo Developer eyes plans for gravel pit outside of Bonner near Blackfoot River Belgrade coach, Columbia Falls Wildcat Hall of Fame member, dies Missoula police release cause of death for woman found in irrigation ditch Not enough wolves being killed in Montana, lawsuit alleges Recap: No. 4 Montana Grizzlies race past Cal Poly Mustangs in second half
Wheeler said avian paramyxovirus is best controlled with frequent disinfection of bird feeding and watering equipment, especially if doves are regularly present. Disinfecting equipment with a 10% bleach solution is recommended.
People who see three or more dead birds in an area are encouraged to notify their local Game and Fish regional office. For more information on wildlife disease, including disease fact sheets and online distribution maps, go to the Game and Fish website. Timely reporting of wildlife deaths is critical to identifying and mitigating the spread of disease.
0 Comments Be the first to know
Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.