A number of birds have died in the Lower Mainland due to a suspected outbreak of salmonella.
Since January the Wildlife Rescue Association has confirmed approximately 25 cases of pine siskins with salmonella poisoning.
In a press release, WRA Liaison Crystal Simmons said members of the public can help reduce the spread of salmonella to other birds.
"Pine siskins are particularly vulnerable to salmonella but by being vigilant and proactive, members of the public can help reduce the spread of infection and limit the risk to local pine siskins populations," Simmons said.
According to the WRA, most salmonella outbreaks in birds are caused from contaminated bird feeders.
The association is desperately urging the public to frequently clean and disinfect and bird feeders and birdbaths. They recommend that feeders be cleaned at least once a week with a ten per cent solution of bleach. They also recommend moving bird feeders regularly and disposing of any old bird food.
While the risk of salmonella poisoning to humans is extremely low, the WRA advises those who handle birds to regularly was their hands.
A pathology lab in Abbotsford has confirmed salmonella poisoning in approximately 50 per cent of the birds it has tested and is conducting further tests on the others.
