Birds pose no danger: Blondin

Westmount has had an influx of new residents. The crow invasion in lower Westmount is ruffling a few feathers, but according to the Quebec’s natural resources ministry, it’s nothing to worry about. The birds arrived in large numbers this year and are flocking to the old Marianopolis campus, around Atwater Avenue and Sherbrooke Street and surrounding streets.

A handful of calls from concerned residents were placed to Westmount’s City Hall and Public Security, but Public Security Director Richard Blondin is quick to reassure residents. “We’re seeing more crows than before, but there’s no danger. They’re on a migratory path. The only thing is, if you see a dead crow, call the Ministre de la Faune,” he said.

He also warns residents not to touch any dead crows they may find.

The provincial government is being vigilant about the avian flu virus. Should any dead birds be found, citizens are asked to call the ministry to report it. Bird corpses that arise suspicion will undergo tests for the virus. If a resident does need to move a dead bird, they are asked to wear gloves and to pick up the bird using a plastic bag. The corpse should be kept somewhere cool and out of the way, but not placed in the fridge or freezer. The ministry can be contacted at 1-877-644-4545 daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.