Province Confirms Worst Year Yet For Bird Flu in Wild Population

A dead Canada goose on the ice in the South Saskatchewan River. (File photo)

The province is confirming Alberta is experiencing its highest level yet of avian influenza infections recorded in the wild bird population with southern Alberta the focal point.

While Alberta Fish and Wildlife caution total mortality is difficult to access, they peg the number of dead birds at up to 2,000.

The impact is mostly centred on Canada geese congregating on open waters along the Oldman and South Saskatchewan rivers between Pincher Creek and Medicine Hat, according to information posted on Fish and Wildlife’s website.

Five skunks believed to have scavenged on dead birds were also identified as infected with avian influenza in November as well as the virus being confirmed in raptor species.

Mortality peaked in November but continues residually in some areas, according to Fish and Wildlife.

Cases in wild birds is largely patterned along both spring and fall migrations with previous peaks reported in spring and fall 2022, fall of 2023 and fall of 2024.

Provincial data showing sample test results for avian influenza in Alberta’s wild bird population.

In addition to skunks, avian influenza has been suspected in foxes and has been confirmed in one black bear since the outbreak began to spread nationally in early 2022, according to Fish and Wildlife.

In a social media post, the City of Medicine Hat advised the public to avoid handling dead geese and, if you do, to wear gloves and thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.

“If your pet comes in contact with one of these dead geese or tries to ingest one, you should monitor for any upper respiratory or neurological symptoms,” stated the post. “If any symptoms develop, and the pet has access to the outdoors or consumes a raw diet, please contact your veterinary clinic. Although transmission to domestic pets is uncommon, it remains a potential risk.”

If you come across dead wildlife on city roads or sidewalks, the public is advised to contact Municipal Works at 403-529-8177. If the dead animal is found in parks or pathways, the public should contact Parks & Recreation at 403-529-8333.