Paralysis syndrome continues to claim many magpie lives – searching for the cause
Rescue centres in WA such as Kanyana Wildlife have reported an increase of more than five times the rate of admissions of magpies with this distressing and frequently fatal neurological disorder in recent months.
Impacted birds show symptoms such as weakness, inability to stand or coordinate movements – and in more advanced cases, an inability to lift their heads or breathe.
Murdoch University researchers are collaborating with wildlife centres and organisations, such as Wildlife Health Australia, to gather information on the geographic range, species and age of birds affected along with conducting tests to find a diagnosis.
Bethany Jackson from Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute said WA magpies have presented with similar signs since around 2018, but with the number of cases exponentially growing along with the areas affected, it was vital to identify the root cause of the condition
“In the past, some birds were diagnosed with botulism, however, there are some parts of this that do not fit with a typical botulism event,” Dr Jackson said.
Although preliminary investigations have been conducted, and some potential causes examined, more information is needed before a specific cause can be determined.
The disease is also affecting ravens, butcher birds and mudlarks.
“The investigation is ongoing. Like the paralysis syndromes we’ve seen in bats and lorikeets over east it could be a long and challenging road to get to the bottom of it,” Dr Jackson said.
WA Wildlife veterinarian Dr Meg Rodgers said that the disease is seasonal and affects a large area, mostly in the Perth metro region and South-West.
Authorities are urging the public to report sightings of affected birds and avoid handling them. The 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on free call is 1800 675 888.
