West Nile Virus & Wildlife Concerns
West Nile's Effect on Wildlife
Turn on your local or national news most any day, and you'll hear the devastating effects that West Nile has breathed on mankind. But what about nature? Our precious wildlife? Our zoos? Our domesticated animals?
With time, our wildlife will build up an immunity to the Virus. Animals that get bitten by an infected mosquito will build antibodies, therefore creating stronger, more resistant genes to be passed on to the next generation. Until then, casualties will abound.
|
|
At this time, scientists know that the following animals can be infected with the potentially deadly West Nile Virus: birds, horses, skunks, bats, chipmunks, domesticated rabbits, squirrels, and cats. Statistics are currently being generated relating to the profound effect that West Nile will have on man. Unfortunately, there will be heavy casualties relating to our wildlife.
If a particular species is hit hard, it effects the wildlife chain. For example, Fire Ants displaced our Harvester Ants, the Horned Lizard's mainstay of food, thereby threatening their survival. In turn, even if the mosquito is taken out of pocket, the consequences would be devastating.
Then we have the 'I'm scared as hell' frenzy. Many individuals are so frightened and confused that they're emptying birdbaths and removing water sources, which in turn will have a detrimental effect on wildlife.
In addition, it is more likely that wildlife in the warmer regions are at greatest risk. In these tropical-like areas, West Nile can thrive year-round.
What you can do:
- West Nile Virus is known to have infected the following animals: horses, birds, chipmunks, skunks, cats, bats, squirrels and domesticated rabbits. I have read of only one occurrence of a dog contracting West Nile Virus. So, until more is known, precaution is our best weapon of defense.
- An equine vaccine is currently in place, and hopefully we'll have some idea of its effectiveness. However, given its success, it will only protect our horses. Even if a vaccine were developed that would protect all forms of wildlife from the West Nile Virus, it would be impossible to inoculate our wild skunks, chipmunks - and the remainder of our animals at risk. So if you own a horse, schedule a vaccination.
- House your family pet indoors. If the pet needs to go outside to tend to Mother Nature's call, provide a treated area. As a note, pets can be protected with DEET, though you'll need to apply the product lightly with your hands only. The product should never be sprayed around your pet as it effects mucus membranes; animals are also equipped with extra sensitive sensory glands so the dangerous effect is magnified.
- Avoid taking your pet outdoors during the early morning and late evening hours.
- Provide birds and other wandering critters that may frequent your yard with FRESH water. Change the water daily. Standing and stagnant waters create a perfect environment for mosquito breeding.
- Speak out against community spraying. Why? Spraying doesn't just eliminate the mosquito; it kills other insects that are part of our delicate ecosystem.
Finally, in our race for a solution to the West Nile Virus, hopefully the safety of our wildlife won't be left behind.
