Town of Caledon testing deceased geese for Avian Influenza

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March 17, 2023 – Caledon’s Municipal Law Enforcement division is following up on reports of dead geese in a storm water pond in Bolton. It is recommended residents start taking some precautions for presumed Avian Influenza (bird flu) while specimens are being tested at the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC).

The risk of Avian Flu spreading to humans is extremely rare. There are no indicators of increasing risk to the general public at this time. It’s recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada that members of the public should not handle sick or dead wild birds or other wildlife, as they may be infected with diseases that can spread to humans. Pets should also be kept away from sick or dead wildlife and be kept on leashes. To help stop the potential spread, Caledon Animal Services discourages the use of birdfeeders and recommends removal of existing ones to limit transmission of the virus. As well, cats should be kept indoors, and birdbaths should be removed.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, wild birds in Canada and throughout the world are natural carriers of avian influenza viruses. Although some wild birds may get sick and die, others can be infected and still appear healthy. Avian influenza can spread to domestic poultry and can sometimes spread to mammals, such as foxes, skunks and mink, who may eat infected birds.

The public is asked to report any sick or dead wildlife on public property by calling 311. Please do not touch dead or ill wildlife.

If you have any questions that pertain to sick or dead wildlife on your property contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.

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