Numerous fallen birds were found in the Upper Valley; the likely culprit is West Nile Virus. West Nile Virus is a deadly disease that is spread by mosquitoe. Often, the carrier is a bird or hawk.

After the rains began in June many normal looking Morning Dove were detected in the Upper Valley either near death or having passed.

The dove may not be the 'Canary in the Coal Mine' but, they are some indication that West Nile Virus is always present when there are mosquitos.

In the past residents have taken dead birds, in some cases dove, to the Texas Department of Health office downtown. However, we learned that these specimens are rarily tested because the preference is for a raptor or other larger bird to be brought in to eliminate that they were downed by other causes. Dove can be struck by a hawk or hit a picture window and end up on the ground.

Prepared by UVB staff.

(Photos: Brax - Valley Publishing Company)

Send feedback to:

Editor, UpperValleyBeacon.com

elpasotimes.com elpasoinc.com ktsm.com kvia.com utep.edu newyorktimes.com

Copyright © 2004-2008 Valley Publishing Company:
All Rights Reserved.