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Wales Online
a day ago
- Health
- Wales Online
Everyone with blackbirds in their garden asked to take urgent action
Everyone with blackbirds in their garden asked to take urgent action There has been a serious decline in the population because of a virus Blackbirds are being threatened by a virus (Image: Pexels ) UK families are being urged to take urgent action in their gardens as the deadly mosquito-borne Usutu virus threatens blackbird numbers nationwide. Ecologists are calling on households to make small changes that can have a big impact on protecting one of the most recognisable and best-loved garden birds in the country. Data has revealed a 40% decline in blackbirds in Greater London since the virus was first detected in 2020 - and with climate change helping mosquitoes expand their range, experts warn the problem is only set to grow. Carried by the Culex pipiens mosquito - the common house mosquito - Usutu virus does not affect humans in the UK, but is often fatal to birds - especially blackbirds, which are particularly vulnerable to infection. With longer summers, warmer temperatures and heavier rainfall creating ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, ecologists are warning that climate change is helping diseases like Usutu gain a foothold in the UK for the first time. The virus is now well established in Britain's wild bird population and further declines in some species are expected unless action is taken to limit additional pressures like habitat loss and food scarcity. Now, ecological experts at Arbtech are encouraging families to support one of Britain's most common garden visitors, whose numbers are under threat. Article continues below A spokesperson for Arbtech said: 'Blackbirds are more than just a familiar visitor to our gardens - they're important seed dispersers and insect predators, helping to regulate pest populations and support healthy ecosystems. 'But they're under real pressure. Diseases like Usutu virus, which can cause tremors, disorientation and even sudden death in infected birds, are an emerging threat - and many people still don't realise the impact it's already having. 'The good news is that households with even a small garden can make a real difference. Simple actions like planting native shrubs, providing clean water and avoiding pesticides all help create safer, healthier habitats for blackbirds to feed, nest and thrive.' Seven ways to help protect blackbirds in your garden Plant for shelter and food Growing native trees and shrubs like hawthorn, dogwood or elder gives blackbirds cover and natural food sources. You can also leave some leaf litter or logs to encourage insects for blackbirds to eat. Offer fresh water daily Birds need clean water for drinking and bathing. Use shallow dishes or birdbaths and scrub them out regularly to avoid the spread of disease. Avoid pesticides and chemicals Slug pellets and weedkillers harm insect populations and can poison birds. Instead, try to choose organic or wildlife-friendly alternatives. Numbers have dropped (Image: Pexels ) Disinfect feeders and tables Clean all bird feeders and feeding stations at least once a week to reduce the risk of spreading disease between birds. Report signs of disease If you spot sick or dead birds, report it to Garden Wildlife Health or the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), as early reporting helps track outbreaks like Usutu. Symptoms of Usutu virus in blackbirds can vary, but infected birds often show signs of serious neurological and physical distress. Article continues below Common symptoms include lethargy or weakness, loss of coordination, unsteady movement, disorientation or unusual behaviour (like not fleeing from humans), tremors, seizures, and fluffed-up feathers - a common sign of illness in birds). Build wildlife corridors Leave gaps in fences or plant hedgerows to help blackbirds and other species safely move between gardens. Source garden products carefully Imported bird boxes or bee hotels may introduce pests or pathogens. Choose UK made or naturally sourced items where possible.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Mosquito-borne West Nile virus found in Tazewell County
MORTON, Ill. (WMBD) — Officials have confirmed a mosquito pool collected in Tazewell County has tested positive for West Nile virus. The pool was reportedly collected on Tuesday, June 10 in Morton before being tested on Wednesday at the Tazewell County Health Department. According to the Tazewell County Health Department, West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Most people who are infected do not experience symptoms, but if symptoms are present, mild cases may cause a slight fever or headache. The Tazewell County Health Department said more severe cases may result in a fast-developing high fever with head and body aches, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, and in some severe cases, paralysis or death. The health department also said symptoms typically happen from three to 14 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. People 60 years or older are at the highest risk for serious illness associated with West Nile Virus. While the pool was collected in Morton, anyone within the area are urged to use precautions. The department conducts regular testing of mosquito pools throughout Tazewell County and encourages residents to do what they can to help prevent the spread of West Nile virus. The health department encourages residents to follow 'The 3 R's for Protecting Against Mosquitoes': Reduce: Reduce the number of mosquitoes by reporting eliminating instances ofstanding water (water that has sat in the same spot for more than 7-10 days). These areasare breeding grounds for mosquitoes and for West Nile Virus. This can include keepingoutdoor trash cans closed so they do not fill with rainwater; getting rid of old tires, tincans, buckets, drums, bottles, or any other water-holding containers; and emptying plasticwading pools at least once a week and storing indoors when not in use. Repel: Repel mosquitoes by using the proper insect repellent. Use a repellent containingDEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. When possible, avoid being outdoors fromdusk to dawn. This is when mosquitoes are most active. If you are outside during thesetimes, wear loose-fitting, light-colored, and long-sleeved tops and long pants made oftightly woven materials to keep mosquitoes away from the skin. Report: Report instances of standing water that have sat for more than 7-10 days. Toreport standing water in Tazewell County, head to TCHD's standing water report form. For more information on West Nile virus, you can visit the Illinois Department of Public Health's website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Windsor sets mosquito traps around town as part of summer management program
DENVER (KDVR) — The Town of Windsor says it set up 14 mosquito traps in 'various locations' around town as part of its 'high-performing' comprehensive mosquito control program this summer. The town is partnering with Vector Disease Control International for the program, which includes adult mosquito surveillance, field inspections and control applications, Windsor said Wednesday. Did you know? Dogs can be an official witness at weddings in Colorado The mosquito control program begins in June and typically runs through August, the town said. 'The Town of Windsor and VDCI are committed to continue approaching mosquito management from a data-driven perspective, spraying as necessary throughout the season to reduce the chances of humans contracting West Nile Virus,' Windsor said in a news release. The mosquito traps are monitored on a weekly basis, while treatment is determined by mosquito population data, according to the town, which said mosquitoes caught by the traps are counted and identified by species. Denver weather: After days of rain, how do totals compare to last year? Control applications are also performed in areas where traps catch 100 adult mosquitoes or more, while field technicians also 'regularly' inspect standing water sources, the town said. Mosquitos identified as Culex mosquitoes, which carry the West Nile Virus, are tested by the Weld County and Larimer County health departments for the presence of the disease. Windsor is advising residents to help control the mosquito population this summer by regularly checking their properties for standing water — including clogged drains, puddles, vehicle tires, flowerpots and kiddie pools, among other things. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
West Nile virus found in Rockford mosquito pool, sparking health concerns
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Health (IDPH) reported its first mosquito pool in the state, testing positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). IDPH says the results came in yesterday, May 12. These reports—coming from the city of Rockford in Winnebago County—are also the first time the virus was reported this year. 'The news of the first batch of mosquitos carrying West Nile virus is a reminder for Illinois residents to begin protecting themselves from diseases caused by mosquito and tick bites,' said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Vohra said it's important for individuals to prevent the chances of sustaining mosquito bites, especially those who have a weaker immune system. WNV is transmitted from a Culex mosquito bite, also known as house mosquitoes. Most WNV symptoms include fever, upset stomach, headache and muscle aches. However, there are chances someone may not show any symptoms. One practice Vohra suggested to combat the virus surrounds the three R's: reduce, repel and report. In 2024, the state of Illinois saw 69 human cases in relation to WNV, and about 13 people died from the virus. More information about WNV can be found on the health department's website here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Researcher receives $54,000 grant to combat dangerous diseases: 'We need to know which species we're dealing with'
Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Generate Key Takeaways One Utah State University researcher was recently awarded a $54,000 grant from the American Mosquito Control Association Research Fund to lead an AI-powered effort that will help better identify disease-carrying mosquitoes. The computer vision-based artificial intelligence technology will help Norah Saarman and her team of ecologists develop new low-cost identification methods for the Culex mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus, according to a news release from the university. While most people who contract West Nile virus are symptomless, about 1 in 5 develops a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 1 in 150 people will develop serious symptoms such as inflammation in the brain or meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. While Utah isn't known as a hotspot for mosquitoes compared to other regions of the country, a number of mosquito species are spreading their ranges thanks to the warming of our planet. For instance, Culex quinquefasciatus, one West Nile virus vector species, has made its way into the Salt Lake City area over the last few years, according to USU. And one recent study found that several mosquito species populations are set to expand their ranges in North and South America in the coming years, thanks to rising temperatures. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, higher temperatures also increase the risk of human exposure to the disease, as they can accelerate mosquito development, biting rates, and the incubation of the disease within a mosquito. There has already been a rise in cases of many mosquito-borne diseases in recent years. For instance, the World Mosquito Program called 2024 the "worst year for dengue cases on record." As we deal with such increased risks of mosquito-borne disease, scientists and communities are fighting back with solutions. For instance, officials in one Florida county are using X-rays to kill invasive mosquitoes. And a $70 million pilot program that tested one malaria vaccine in Africa helped reduce deaths among young children by 13% over a period of four years. As for Saarman's work, she and her team are looking to help prevent vector-borne disease in the safest, most cost-effective and environmentally friendly ways. "Doing that means we need to know which species we're dealing with and the pathogens they're infected with as soon as possible," Saarman said. "The power of AI will help us achieve this." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
