Surveillance for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in live captured tundra swans in Northwest Alaska

Wilson, Heather

To examine relationships between highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) prevalence and migration patterns of tundra swans (Cygnus columbianus) breeding and molting in Northwest Alaska, we captured and markeda total of 230 molting tundra swans (including 3 recaptures) from areas surrounding Kotzebue, Alaska (Selawik, Buckland, Kobuk Delta, Noatak Delta, and Baldwin Peninsula; 22-28 July 2008) and implanted 10 of these individuals (5 breeding and 5 molting females) with satellite transmitters. In total, we sampled 224 individuals for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1). In addition we collected whole blood, serum, breast and head feathers for genetic, contaminant, seroprevalence, and stable isotope analyses. Thus far, no samples have tested positive for HPAI H5N1, but final results are still pending. As of 24 October 2008, 9 of the 10 tundra swans marked in Northwest Alaska were alive and migrating south through Southern Alberta and Saskatchewan (Canada), Central Montana, and Northern Utah. Continuing movement data from satellite transmitters will provide information on migration routes, wintering areas, and seasonal movement patterns for tundra swans breeding and molting in Northwest Alaska and help clarify population structure among aggregations of tundra swans statewide. Given continued evidence of HPAI H5N1 infection in swans worldwide, interest in their role as carriers of the disease, and large sample sizes and ancillary data achievable in Northwest Alaska, continued (and possibly expanded) sampling in 2009 is recommended.

Surveillance for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in live captured tundra swans in Northwest Alaska

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