New Zealand’s unique endangered native birds could be threatened by a
virulent strain of Salmonella. The bug has already killed thousands of
sparrows, and has jumped to ducks, quail and cockatoos since the outbreak began
in August. Native wax-eyes, which are not endangered, have been dying in unusual
numbers around feeding tables. The infection has not yet been seen in rarities
such as kiwis or kakas in zoos in affected areas, raising hopes that wild birds
will also resist infection.
To continue reading, today with our introductory offers
Advertisement
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Life
New Scientist recommends a brilliant take on the evolution of birds
Culture
Environment
Striking photos show how sands are encroaching on oases in the Sahara
Regulars
Comment
Think you have a good sense of humour? So do most people…
Regulars
Comment
Sci-fi horror film Backrooms is a triumph for its 20-year-old director
Culture
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles
1
Fully autonomous drones have killed human soldiers for the first time
2
Why we should all take quantum physics extremely personally
3
Mysterious ‘cold blob’ in the Atlantic suggests the AMOC is weakening
4
A nuclear war between India and Pakistan could destroy the ozone layer
5
Millions of fossil whale bones found in deep-ocean ‘necropolis’
6
Understanding anorexia’s grip on the brain could unlock new therapies
7
What is a ‘normal’ memory slowdown, and when should I worry?
8
Dinosaur-killing asteroid impact site stayed hot for millions of years
9
AIs can’t stop recommending nuclear strikes in war game simulations
10
Robots are about to overtake armed soldiers as the deciders of war
