E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens

Native ducks are a much-loved part of the E.G. Waterhouse Camellia Gardens, and to ensure they continue to utilise the gardens for many years to come. An outbreak of Avian Botulism, a naturally occurring bacteria, has caused a number of ducks in recent months to become sick eventually leading to death, however by alerting the NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) or Council to any sick or deceased ducks you may find while visiting Camellia Gardens, you can play an important role in helping us to control the further spread of this disease.

What is Avian Botulism?

Avian (bird) Botulism is a naturally present bacteria within wetlands, lakes and watercourses around the world.

How is it spread and affect the ducks?

The disease is caused by waterbirds eating plants and invertebrates, such as maggots, insects, and worms, from water bodies and in the process ingesting the botulism toxin released by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which causes progressive weakness, paralysis and eventually death in waterbirds.

Are other species of wildlife affected?

Other waterbirds can be affected, however within the Camellia Gardens only the Pacific Black Duck and Chestnut Teals are presenting with symptoms.

What causes Avian Botulism Outbreaks?

There can be many causes of an Avian Botulism outbreak, however some of the most common contributing factors are;

• Bacterial presence – The bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which produces the botulinum toxin, is naturally present in the environment, particularly in soils, dust, and sediments of wetlands, rivers, and lakes.

• Anaerobic conditions – C. Botulinum thrives in low-oxygen (anaerobic) conditions. These conditions are often found in stagnant or slow-moving water bodies with high levels of organic matter.

• Temperature – Warm temperatures accelerate the growth of C. botulinum and the production of its toxin. Outbreaks are more common during warm summer months.

• Decomposing organic matter – The presence of decomposing plant and animal material provides a nutrient-rich environment for the bacteria to multiply.

• Water quality – Poor water quality, including high nutrient levels and low oxygen levels, can create favourable conditions for the bacteria.

• Invertebrate vectors – Maggots and other invertebrates feeding on infected carcasses can concentrate the toxin and spread it to birds that consume them.

• Bird behaviour – Congregation of birds in specific areas, such as feeding or nesting sites, can facilitate the spread of the toxin among the population.

What is Council doing?

Council continues to work with lead environmental agencies and animal welfare body WIRES, signage is in place discourage feeding of bread to the birds, ongoing sediment removal where practicable, and the utilisation of water pumps and hoses to help improve water circulation and aeration.

What should I do if I find a dead or sick duck?

The first sign of Avian Botulism is usually a drooping head followed by inability to ‘flap’ and then appearing very limp. If you see any sick or dead water birds in the garden or waterways, call WIRES on 1300 094 737, notify Council staff on site if available or you can contact Council on 9710 0333.

Is it safe for me to visit Camellia Gardens?

Human botulism infection is rare due to minimal or no contact with botulism contaminated materials, foods and other animals that have become exposed to decaying materials (i.e. birds and fish). However, exposure is still possible through open wounds or ingestion, predominantly by small children playing around lake edges and other areas which may contain the botulism toxin (i.e. in water, mud or soil around lakes).

If you or someone you know has come into contact with the sediment of a wetland, and you suspect a break in the skin has been exposed to the sediment (scratch, cut, graze etc.), antiseptic measures should be applied as soon as practicable, and the wound cleaned. At the sign of any medical symptoms seek medical advice from a doctor or hospital.