Nature Fact

AVIAN POXVIRUS ALERT  -  Avian pox is a viral skin infection that shows up as warty growths on the head (particularly next to the eyes and beak) legs, wings or other body parts of the infected bird.  The growths are usually grey, pinkish, red or yellow in colour and can reach a considerable size.  Affected birds feed and move around normally.  The birds most affected are Tits, Dunnocks and pigeons.  Avian poxvirus spreads between birds by biting insects, by direct bird-to-bird contact and by indirect contact via surfaces such as perches or bird feeders.  Good hygiene at feeding stations (regular disinfection required) will help to stop the spread to healthy birds.