Virulent Disease Waiting in the Wings
The virulent paramyxovirus has been found in domestic racing and hobby pigeons at a number of properties around Melbourne, and recently it has also been detected in wild Rock Doves.
While the fate of domestic pigeons is not usually in the sphere of Birds Australia, it is essential that we monitor the situation, because, although confined to in pigeons at this stage, this disease could potentially be transmitted to other wild birds that come into contact with infected pigeons.
The Victorian Department of Primary Industries has requested that people be on the lookout for any signs of disease that are unusual or clusters of deaths in wild birds. If you have or see pigeons displaying symptoms of the virus (see below), or numerous dead pigeons, immediately phone the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888. This will put you in contact with your state or territory department of agriculture. It is critical that outbreaks are reported to prevent further spread of the virus, and to assist in eradication efforts. There are no penalties for reporting.
What are the symptoms
