Wildlife officials told to be vigilant during bird migration season
 

by Florence Wickamage

The Department of Wildlife Conservation has requested Wildlife Officials to exercise vigilance for possible detections of signs of bird-flu since the bird-migration season has begun.

The DWLC in cooperation with the Animal Production and Health Department and the Veterinary Department of the Peradeniya University conducted a workshop recently to educate officials of these departments on Bird Flu and possible methods through which the virus could enter the country.

Birds flying into tropical countries to escape harsh winters take refuge in Sri Lanka's wetlands such as Bundala, Kumana and Anawilundawa. These National Parks are habitats to a wide range of fauna.

The workshop studied different possible aspects of the virus affecting Sri Lanka's birdlife with migratory birds joining local waterfowl in catchment areas. It was also pointed out that the virus could spread through bird droppings and if it enters the body of a wild-boar, the chances for the virus to develop is considered four times greater.

Among those who participated at the Workshop were the Acting Director General of DWLC H. M. B. C. Herath and officials of the relevant departments.