<Summary>
Attendees: Dr. Gillin, Keith DeHart, Lynn Thompkins from Blue Mountain, and OWRA Board
1. HPAI Update
ODFW has been closely following a new strain type of HPAI. There is one case (pig) in Oregon and the new strain is different than anything else. It affects lots of different kind of species and is increasing. Currently, Oregon does not have many outbreaks in backyard flocks, yet. However, the situation has not improved; particularly for dabbling ducks in contaminated wetland habitats. Also, ODFW Wildlife Service collected infected House Sparrows, Brewer’s Blackbirds, and European Starlings near from an infected farm. Dr. Gillin is not sure if they are asymptomatic.
Dr. Gillin wants rehabbers to avoid accepting dabbling ducks until this spike in cases passes. ODFW will consider lifting restrictions when the virus is outcompeted by a weaker strain.
2. Rabbit Hemorrhagic Virus Update
There is another spike happening: Hundreds of Black-tailed jackrabbits in the Klamath area were reportedly impacted last January. Eastern Cottontail were also found positive in Prineville. The restriction of rabbits East of the Cascades remains the same.
3. Permit Reporting
It will be discussed next time James Coakley is present in the meeting.
4. Open Discussion and Next Steps
● Salmonella
Oregon is experiencing a Salmonella outbreak. If rehab facilities receive songbirds which are suspected of having Salmonella, ODFW would like rehabbers to send the birds to them. Dr. Gillin also mentioned that it would be better to inform the public to take down bird feeders for the sake of public health.
● ODFW inspection
There is no checklist from ODFW for their inspection, for rehab facilities. Bare minimum is described in national rehabilitators council document.
Next meeting: March 18, 2025, 10A
Do you have specific rules or things you would like clarified? Please send your suggestions or questions to owra.board@gmail.com !
Comments