The recent deaths of gannets suspected of being caused by avian flu in the vicinity of Percé, in Gaspésie, seem circumscribed, but remain worrying.

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Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé has recently opened despite the discovery of several dozen gannets who died mysteriously.

“Since last week, we have spotted 75 dead specimens. Four carcasses [suspected of containing the bird flu virus] were sent to the Quebec Center for Wild Animal Health, from which we are still awaiting the results, ”explains Rémi Plourde, director of the Park.

The results of the analyzes will be known during the coming week.

Although the problem remains quite limited on the territory of Bonaventure Island, the situation could become much more serious, according to an expert.

“It is sure that it is soon the time of the reproduction, explained Magella Guillemette, professor specialized in marine ornithology at the University of Quebec in Rimouski. I don't know the impact on a virus like avian flu, but although there is no copulation at the moment, the male and the female take the time to find each other and that risks accelerating contact. and thus, cases of avian flu.”

For the specialist, this situation is unheard of. “Mass mortalities in the marine environment have happened before. It can be related to oil management, lack of food, toxic algae. But I had never heard before that bird flu could have negative impacts on seabirds,” he said.