Since the outbreak of avian bird flu across Europe, swans seem to be the most vulnerable victims of the virus. But, why is this happening? Is it that they are susceptible to the disease, and it’s easy to notice when they die?
Compared to other waterfowl, scientists don’t think swans are being infected at a higher rate. In fact, the scientists consider the migratory ducks somewhat more likely than other birds to carry the disease. But again, ducks are also less likely than swans to exhibit symptoms of the flu.
The explanation can go like this: — An infected duck, for example, can shed the virus in its droppings and contaminate the water. (The virus can survive for quite some time in a cold environment.) Another bird-a mute swan, for example-might ingest some of that water and develop the disease. But, no one knows for sure, why we see so many swan deaths in such a short time!
Via: Slate