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The cause of death of a bald eagle and a Canada goose at Lake Thurmond has been diagnosed as avian vacuolar myelinopathy or AVM, according to the S.C. Department of Natural Resources and the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study at the University of Georgia. Ten additional bald eagles and many coots are also suspected to have died from AVM in recent weeks on Lake Thurmond. "Our bald eagle population is still recovering, so the loss of eleven individuals in one area is significant," said Tom Murphy, S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wildlife biologist and leader of the state^s eagle recovery project. "This mortality could have a tremendous impact on the bald eagle population in that area." First diagnosed in eagles found dead in Arkansas in 1994, AVM affects birds^ central nervous system. It was first recognized in South Carolina in late 1998 when a single affected eagle was found at Lake Thurmond. The cause of AVM is unknown, despite extensive diagnostic and research efforts; however, a natural or man- made toxin is suspected. Eagles are believed to be exposed to AVM by ingesting affected coots, but independent exposure of the two species cannot be ruled out. "Because coots are potentially part of the spread of this disease, duck hunters need to be aware that there is a possibility of infected birds in the Lake Thurmond area," said Tommy Strange, DNR Waterfowl Project leader. "We encourage hunters statewide to watch the behavior of the birds. If it is unusual or erratic, we ask them to please report this to a local DNR office or conservation officer." No evidence exists that AVM affects humans or other mammals. However, as with any sick wild animal, birds suspected of having AVM should be considered unfit for consumption. Symptoms of birds affected with AVM include erratic flight or inability to fly; swimming tipped to one side with one or both legs or wings extended; or being in the water on their back with their feet in the air. On land, birds stagger and have difficulty walking and may fall over, unable to right themselves. Birds are usually alert and may bite when handled even if unable to escape capture. Department of Natural Resources officials will continue to monitor the AVM outbreak on Lake Thurmond. If you notice any strange behavior of eagles, coots, Canada geese or any other waterfowl, contact the DNR at (803) 734-3886 in Columbia or call 1-800-922-5431 toll-free, 24 hours a day.

Uploaded: 12/14/2000