Dead Canadian geese are appearing more frequently across southern Ontario, raising alarm among experts who suspect an outbreak of bird flu. The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) has detected a surge in bird flu cases in recent weeks, primarily impacting Canadian geese, which are particularly susceptible to the virus. A confirmed case of avian flu in a Canada goose at Rouge National Urban Park in Scarborough last week has further intensified concerns.
Health officials are bracing for a potential surge in bird flu cases as migratory birds return to Canada this spring. Experts have identified a seasonal pattern in avian flu outbreaks, typically occurring during migration periods in the fall and spring. This seasonal pattern is attributed to migratory birds, such as ducks and geese, spreading the virus over long distances along their migration routes. As Canada lies within major migratory flyways like the Mississippi Flyway and the Atlantic Flyway, there is an increased risk of receiving birds traveling from the south, some of which may carry the virus.
Matthew Miller, director of DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research at McMaster University, emphasized the importance of vigilance regarding bird flu.
“The risk to the average person remains rather low, but what’s really important is that people exercise extra vigilance if they come across dead animals, especially wild birds,” — Matthew Miller
Miller further advised avoiding handling dead animals and taking precautions with pets, particularly in open areas.
“They should avoid handling those animals and be extremely cautious with off-leash pets, particularly in open areas.” — Matthew Miller
The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), subtype H5N1, has already impacted both wild and domestic birds across Canada and even a human case in British Columbia. This development raises concerns about the rapid spread of the virus as flocks migrate northward. The CWHC noted that dead geese found in Brampton are suspected cases of avian flu, with testing currently underway to confirm the cause. Additionally, five other geese in the area have shown symptoms consistent with bird flu.
Sharif, another expert on the subject, highlighted the evolving understanding of avian influenza transmission patterns.
“Avian influenza viruses up until the most recent set of outbreaks that we’ve been witnessing since 2021 or 2022 … we always felt they don’t have a seasonal pattern of transmission,” — Sharif
“But over the last three years or so, it’s become quite clear that this particular strain, because it hitchhikes with migratory birds, it does actually have a seasonal pattern and the seasonal pattern is fall and spring.” — Sharif
Sharif also emphasized the role of migratory birds in spreading the virus.
“There’s always a chance for migratory birds to spread the virus. I would say that’s really one of the main modes of transmission for this particular strain of virus,” — Sharif
Bird flu is prevalent among waterfowl, such as geese and ducks, but it can also infect birds of prey that consume infected birds. As migration continues, experts warn that the avian flu is likely to spread further.
Matthew Miller advised caution regarding bird feeders, noting that while songbirds may not carry the virus, feeders could attract waterfowl that do.
“If those feeders are attracting unwanted guests in the form of ducks and geese, I highly suggest thinking twice about having those feeders installed,” — Matthew Miller
Sharif echoed similar sentiments regarding bird feeders.
“When it comes to bird feeders, he added that while songbirds may not carry the virus, the feeders could attract waterfowl that do.” — Sharif
Both experts recommend keeping pets away from areas where infected birds might be present.
“For animals, especially for dogs, I would highly suggest that dogs be kept away from any dead birds or any potential areas where birds might have landed because we never know what kind of birds are carrying the virus,” — Sharif
