The RSPCA’s Michael Linke is advising the bird feeders of Canberra as to how best stop the spread of Circovirus (aka Beak and Feather):
- Beak and Feather is caused by a virus known as a Circovirus. There is no cure for this virus. The virus persists in the environment for a long time and is resistant to most disinfectants. It is readily spread between birds by faeces and feather dust. Parent birds may pass the disease to offspring during feeding when in the nest. This virus is highly contagious and spread easily through certain Parrot species within the ACT.
“Many Canberrans enjoy feeding and watching birds drink from backyard feeding and watering stations. To guard against disease spread we strongly recommend people clean bird feeders two to three times per week.
“It is also important to clean up spent seed cases and spilt seed.