Update on Mysterious Bird Deaths
By now I’m sure many of you have heard the reports of birds inexplicably dying over the last several weeks in areas north of us including, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Specimens of Blue Jays, Grackles, Starlings, and Robins (the most prevalently affected species) tested have turned up no clues as to what is killing them. Several illnesses have been ruled out including, Salmonella, several varieties of viruses, and Trichomonas parasites. Scientists are still scratching their heads trying to figure out the cause or causes. It has been recommended that people in the mentioned states take down feeders and birdbaths, or eliminate anything that contributes to birds congregating. There has been no known connection, however, to bird feeders and baths.
Because this issue has been widely reported on, sometimes irresponsibly, we wanted to offer some information to help make you aware and to be vigilant. If you encounter a sick or dead bird please contact us, or Ellington Agricultural Center. In the past week reports of dying birds have slowed and whatever has been affecting birds may be concluding. There have been no reports of dead birds with the specific symptoms of eyes crusted over and possible neurological issues in Tennessee. As always we recommend cleaning your feeders regularly. Make sure your backyard birds are being offered the best environment possible.
Here is a link to an article from Science Magazine that we found to be helpful on the subject.
Rare Bird Sighting
In Trousdale Co. this week a Roseate Spoonbill was reported and confirmed. The bird was seen in the company of Egrets. The Roseate Spoonbill is a pink bodied bird with red highlights, a long spatulate bill, and a grayish to green colored featherless head. Spoonbills feed in shallow water sweeping their bills from side to side. This bird is fairly common along the Gulf coast.