The Georgia Department of Natural Resources wants your help tracking a mysterious bird disease.
The Wildlife Resources Division wrote on Facebook Monday that several states have reported cases of “sick and dying birds with crusty, swollen eyes and neurological symptoms.”
“Most of the reported birds were fledgling blue jays, American robins, common grackles and European starlings. Wildlife disease labs are testing affected birds for several toxins, parasites, bacterial diseases and viral infections,” it said.
Bacteria including salmonella, parasites such as trichomonas and several viruses have been dismissed as being the cause. What the disease is and what’s causing it aren’t known. The National Audubon Society has reported that speculation includes a connection to the arrivals and die-offs of Brood X cicadas.
The DNR said that no issues have been reported with the health of humans or domestic livestock and poultry. Additionally, no cases have been confirmed in the state as of mid-July.
“At this point, we are not recommending taking bird feeders down, though it is important to clean feeders and baths with a 10% bleach solution every two weeks,” the DNR said.
Earlier recommendations said to remove feeders for a week or so if you see a sick bird. That will encourage birds to disperse.
In addition to cleaning feeders and baths with a bleach solution, residents should rake up birdseed, hulls and bird droppings beneath feeders at least twice a week. Wet seed and hulls should be promptly removed and discarded in the trash. Multiple feeders should be spaced out to help reduce bird gatherings.
Residents who find sick birds in Georgia with crusty, swollen eyes and lethargy — or dead birds with similar symptoms — are asked to contact DNR Wildlife Biologist Todd Schneider by calling (478) 994-1438 or emailing todd.schneider@dnr.ga.gov.
