Hello Wild Side Readers,

I wanted to share a small update on the illness impacting birds in Ohio and surrounding states.

• There is still no cause of illness or death.
• People are encouraged to report sick or dead birds.
• The following pathogens have NOT been detected, based on results received to date: Salmonella and Chlamydia (bacterial pathogens); avian influenza virus, West Nile virus and other flaviviruses, Newcastle disease virus and other paramyxoviruses, herpesviruses and poxviruses; and Trichomonas parasites.
• No human health of domestic livestock and poultry issues have been reported.
• The recommendation remains to take down feeders and baths until this illness subsides.
  • WHY? Bird feeders and baths are places where birds congregate and possibly transmit disease to one another. Taking down feeders and baths prevents these gatherings and the risk of disease transmission.
•  Recommendation to keep pets (including pet birds) away from sick or dead birds (as a standard precaution).

Please see the below handout for more information. While the bulk of the reports are coming in from SW and Central Ohio, other parts of the state are not immune. Please remain vigilant and report any cases you see – thank you!!

Additional Resources:

Update from the USGS National Wildlife Health Center

ODNR-Division of Wildlife’s Page on the bird illness

Marne Titchenell

Wildlife Program Specialist