Avian influenza has arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand, with the first case being found on Petone Beach in Wellington. The risk to human health is low, but here’s what you can do on the trapline or in your backyard to minimise the risk of spreading the disease.
Look out for sick birds
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is monitoring the disease and is asking the public to help.
If you see three or more sick or dead birds, report this immediately to 0800 80 99 66, with as much detail as possible, including precise location and bird species.
Leave the bird where they are; don’t handle or move the birds, even with gloves on.
Wash bird feeders daily
While there is currently no official recommendation to take down bird feeders, they need frequent cleaning to help protect birds.
The disease can spread through saliva on nozzle feeders, so clean them daily by scrubbing with hot water and dishwashing liquid (wear gloves and a mask!).
Open dishes and containers accumulate poop and are high risk, so we recommend stopping their use immediately.
If you aren’t able to clean your bird feeder regularly, or if you have backyard chickens, take it down for now.
Phase out eggs and raw poultry as lures in your traps
Raw eggs and bird meat could contribute to the spread of disease.
While the risk is very low for now and there is no official recommendation to stop using these lures, consider phasing them out for now, especially if you use raw egg as a lure in and around your trap.
As an egg alternative, we recommend egg-based mayonnaise, which is pasteurised and therefore doesn’t pose the same risks as raw eggs.
Keep cats safe and happy at home
Cats seem to be very susceptible to severe illness from H5N1 and could contract it from exposure to wild birds.
Keeping cats safe and happy at home minimises the risk of being exposed to the disease, and it’s best for our wildlife too.
Keep dogs on lead
If you’ve got your dog with you on the beach or in the bush, keep it on a lead.
Off-lead dogs could come into contact with infected wildlife, putting them at risk.
MPI has more information about bird flu and is the official source for up-to-date information.
