Poxvirus outbreak among tawny frogmouths: wildlife at risk
Wildlife News with Donna Brennan, Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) 5441 6200 www.wilvos.org.au
Calls to our Hotline often lead our volunteers to those species who may suddenly start showing up in increased numbers because of ill health. Awareness is important as treatment can be administered as soon as possible.
RSPCA’s Eumundi Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre has advised us that they are seeing numerous cases of poxvirus in Tawny Frogmouths across the Sunshine Coast.
This presents with wart-like lesions over bare areas of skin, such as feet, legs, on the eyelids and the base of the beak. It may be seen in all bird species. Birds have enough to contend with in the wet weather, and being waterlogged is the lesser of two evils for the tawnies at the moment. Being contagious we have to be diligent with disinfecting rescue equipment. Fortunately, it is not zoonotic - it doesn’t spread to humans.
One of the Hotline calls came from a member of the public who saw a tawny on the ground, and it’s eyes were crusted over and runny. With treatment the prognosis for this one is good. He is already looking vastly improved. The virus lesions may be self-limiting but there is always the danger of damage to eyes, mouth or a secondary infection occurring. The outlook for this tawny would have been grim without treatment.
While in care, these frogmouths are kept in screened areas that are insect proof. Mosquitos, midges and flies are known vectors in spreading the virus.
Tawny frogmouths are not owls
Tawny frogmouths are often called owls but frogmouths and owls are very distinct species. Owls have sharp, lethal beaks and strong claws so they can pick up their prey. Frogmouths have a wide crushing beak that is perfect for squashing small prey, along with beetles and other bugs. They are often found feeding on insects under street lights.
Tawny frogmouths are fascinating. They are quite easy to cover over and pick up, as they are busy convincing themselves you can’t see them. Just their eyes will follow your movements.
Tawny frogmouths are often called owls but frogmouths and owls are very distinct species.