140 people have contacted the nature protection centre between March and 21 April to report 152 dead and 133 ill birds. The mysterious mass death took place across the country - there were no specific hotspots.
Veterinary investigations conducted in Germany have concluded that the birds died of a bacterial infection of suttonella ornithocola, which is known to cause pneumonia in tit species. Representatives of Luxembourg's nature protection centre stressed that the bacteria in question pose no threat to humans or pets. The infection mainly affects blue tits and occasionally great tits as well as other songbirds.
The protection centre recommends to wear gloves when removing the dead birds. There is currently no treatment for ill blue tits.
Birds suffering from the bacterial infection have fluffed-up plumage and are quite lethargic. They do not fly away from humans or other animals such as cats. The birds often experience breathing difficulties and have slimy discharge coming from their eyes and nares. Ill birds drink more than usual and eat very little.
Scientists advise "social distancing," which means the public should stop feeding the birds or providing them with drinking troughs in order to slow down transmission.
