City encourages caution around wild birds to contain spread of Avian Influenza

The City of Saskatoon is encouraging residents to use caution as The Ministry of Agriculture has confirmed that samples collected from a snow goose found near Elrose have been positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. This confirmation follows the detection of HPAI in poultry and wild birds in the United States and in several Canadian provinces. 

 

Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds. Some wild bird species, such as ducks, can carry the virus and infect other birds without getting sick themselves. Other bird species are more likely to become severely ill and die when infected with some types of avian influenza. It is important to note that the public health risk is extremely low and there is no risk to food safety. 

 

The City asks everyone to help respond to the ongoing outbreak by following these guidelines: 

• Do not feed birds by hand.

• Temporarily take down bird feeders which encourage birds to congregate.

• Do not touch sick or dead birds.

• Report any sick or dead birds you find to the Ministry of Environment Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.

 

The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo has temporarily relocated all bird species at the Zoo to a secure facility in order to protect them against the Avian Influenza. 

 

In addition, the City would like to remind the public that nesting season for Canada geese has begun. Geese are known to be very protective of their nests and will become aggressive if you get too close for their comfort. People should exercise extra caution and awareness if they are in areas near potential nesting sites.