rapidly, increasing losses and adding more toxin to the environment as carcasses decompose 

 and more bacteria are produced. Toxin formed in these carcasses is quite stable and can 

 serve as the source of outbreaks for many months. 



CAN SICK BIRDS BE TREATED? 



Studies at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in Utah have demonstrated that most 

 birds suffering from botulism can be saved. Providing fresh water and shade may be all 

 that is required to save birds in early stages of the disease. Injecting birds with antitoxin 

 can result in recovery of over 75 percent of the birds. However, capturing sick birds and 

 treating them with antitoxin is costly. This treatment is generally reserved for endangered 

 species. 



In dealing with avian botulism, the emphasis should be on prevention and control of out- 

 breaks, rather than treatment of poisoned birds. Identifying possible cases of avian 

 botulism at early stages is the key to effective control. Public awareness of the conditions 

 that lead to avian botulism, and prompt corrective action, can greatly reduce the epidemics 

 which now claim hundreds of thousands of avian lives each year. We encourage anyone 

 observing avian mortality suggestive of an avian botulism problem to promptly report it to 

 state and federal authorities. 



