Unexplained Bird Mortality in Virginia

 

Hello County Coordinators,

 

Birds in Virginia have been affected by a deadly condition whose main identifying symptom is seeping, swollen, and crusty eyes. It appears to be contagious and transmitted where birds congregate, such as bird feeders and bird baths. Several governmental agencies are investigating the cause and spread of this condition. 

We are advised to not use bird feeders or birdbaths for the time being, and to clean ones currently used with 10% bleach solution before storing. Pets should be monitored while outdoors so that they don't consume the sick birds.

The linked document below gives more information about the birds. It should not affect the way that we monitor our nest boxes. When you clean a box after a brood has fledged, please wear gloves and use other precautions. 

https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/dwr-statement-on-sick-and-dying-birds-in-washington-d-c-virginia-maryland-and-west-virginia/

 

If you see a sick or dead bird, please use this form to report it to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (formerly Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries) Bird Mortality Reporting Form | Virginia DWR

 

As more information becomes available I will send it out to you.

As always, thank you for all that you do for the bluebirds.

 

Charlene Talcott

State Coordinator

Virginia Bluebird Society