AVIAN botulism is suspected to have caused the deaths of 33 water birds that have been removed from Horseshoe Lake over the past week by City of Bunbury staff.
City planning and development services director Bob Karaszkewych said the suspected cause of the bird deaths was poisoning due to the ingestion of toxins from bacteria.
Botulism occurs commonly in water birds in Australia each year, particularly during summer, and can affect other animals when they ingest contaminated carcasses and maggots.
“Humans are unlikely to ingest contaminated material at local wetlands and so are considered to be at low risk,” Mr Karaszkewych said.
“However, domestic dogs are susceptible due to their inquisitive nature and should be watched closely when around the area”.
Tissue samples have been sent to a laboratory in Perth for testing and water samples will be analysed to test for toxic algae, another potential cause of the bird deaths.
“The City is working closely with the Department of Parks and Wildlife in managing this issue and will keep a close eye on Horseshoe Lake over the coming days,” Mr Karaszkewych said.
“It is important that any carcasses continue to be removed in order limit the spread of the disease.”
Anyone who finds sick or dead birds at local water bodies should contact the City of Bunbury on 9792 7000.