Avian influenza confirmed in domestic flock in Shelburne County
Canadian Food Inspection Agency awaits confirmation of influenza strain
A case of avian influenza has been confirmed in Shelburne County.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said they received a report of a sick bird on March 3, and investigated based on a suspicion it was highly pathogenic avian influenza.
Initial testing showed the presence of avian influenza, but the CFIA is still waiting for confirmation of the strain, a spokesperson said in an email.
In public social media posts, the bird owners said a wild duck and her three ducklings appeared on the property before the flock got sick. While the owners tried to scare the wild ducks off, the birds kept returning.
Most of their own birds, including ducks, chickens and a turkey, died within 36 hours, and the others were culled.
According to tracking information published by the CFIA, the last time a case of avian influenza was found in domestic birds in Nova Scotia was in February 2024.
The signs of avian influenza include:
- Decreased egg production, with many eggs being soft-shelled or missing shells.
- Diarrhea.
- Bleeding on the bird's hock.
- Sudden death of many birds.
- Quietness and depression.
- Swelling of the skin under the eyes.
- Swollen and congested wattles and combs.
Anyone who thinks their birds may be sick should contact the CFIA.
