Archive: September 2024

From July to September 2024 increased disease occurrence and correlating mortality were noticed, especially in blackbirds. Reports to the DWHC and Sovon increased steeply (see also Read more

Since August 1st, the number of reports of sick and dead hares (Lepus europaeus) has increased. These reports are mainly from Gelderland and Overijssel.

At the end of last year, the DWHC received the first reports of stunned and weakened swans that behaved like “zombies”. At first, it was thought that there was a resurgence of bird flu (Avian Influenza, AI) among swans. However, investigation showed that they were not infected with it.

The annual report containing an overview of all activities of the DWHC for 2023 is now available. Click here to view the annual report.

The last couple of weeks, an above average amount of ill and dead common blackbirds has been reported to the DWHC from all over the Netherlands. A selection of these birds has been examined and tested positive for infection with the Usutu-virus. This virus has caused a higher mortality among common blackbirds