2 snowy owls found dead in Toronto park were infected with avian flu: conservation authority

Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu Found in Snowy Owls at Tommy Thompson Park

Test results have revealed that two snowy owls discovered deceased in Tommy Thompson Park towards the end of last year were infected with a “highly pathogenic” avian flu strain, as stated by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA).

The TRCA has not been able to confirm whether the avian flu strain was specifically H5N1, as Karen McDonald, senior manager of restoration and infrastructure at the agency, mentioned in a recent statement.

“We only know that it is a highly pathogenic avian flu, which has been circulating throughout North America in recent years. This is alarming because it is a contagious virus that results in high mortality rates among infected animals,” the TRCA emphasized in the statement.

Wildlife photographer Steven Shpak, who is an active member of the Facebook group Beauty of the Don, reported the snowy owls’ deaths on December 27, 2024. According to Shpak, the owls exhibited symptoms of vomiting blood before succumbing.

According to information on the federal government’s website, “Influenza A (H5N1) is a subtype of avian influenza virus primarily affecting birds but has been detected in other animals and has caused sporadic infections in humans.”

The TRCA is currently conducting surveillance at Tommy Thompson Park to identify any other sick or deceased birds. Members of the public are encouraged to report any sightings of sick or deceased birds to both the TRCA and the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.

If a bird is found alive and accessible from land, such as along a shoreline, individuals are advised to report the sighting to the Toronto Wildlife Centre, as per the TRCA’s guidelines.

When submitting reports, it is important to include details such as the species (if identifiable), exact location with approximate GPS coordinates or a map, the number of birds observed, the date and time of discovery, and any accompanying photos.

“The public is reminded to refrain from coming into contact with sick or deceased birds or other wildlife to minimize the risk of exposure to avian flu. Do not handle, feed, or touch them,” the TRCA emphasized.