Strange-looking crows with crusty faces in Victoria are raising eyebrows. Experts explain avian pox and why locals shouldn’t panic.
Spooky Sight Along Dallas Road
If you’ve spotted crows in Victoria looking like they just stepped out of a Halloween set, you’re not alone. Along Dallas Road, flocks of birds with crusty, wart-like growths have been startling passersby. But before you imagine a bird apocalypse, wildlife experts want you to know the culprit is a natural—though eerie—virus called avian pox.
What’s Really Happening to the Crows?
Avian pox is a viral disease that causes rough, wart-like nodules on the bare parts of a bird’s body, such as the beak, legs, or around the eyes. While it may look gruesome, it isn’t unusual. In fact, wildlife rehabilitators at the BC SPCA’s Wild ARC see it every year.
Wallis Reid, senior wildlife rehabilitator at the Metchosin-based centre, explains:
Why Now? Seasonal Spread Explained
Reports of infected crows have spiked recently, fueled by photos shared online. But Reid notes this timing is typical. After breeding season, younger birds spread out and gather in larger groups. With weaker immune systems, they’re more prone to infections like avian pox.
Despite the rise in sightings, Wild ARC hasn’t seen more sick birds admitted. Most infected crows can still fly, making them difficult to rescue. Intervention is usually only possible if a bird becomes weak enough to be contained.
Can Avian Pox Kill Birds?
The virus itself is rarely fatal. However, lesions can interfere with essential functions like eating, walking, or even breathing. In severe cases, secondary infections may develop. Still, most birds recover naturally.
Ann Nightingale, a volunteer with Rocky Point Bird Observatory, reassures locals:
How the Virus Spreads
Avian pox spreads mainly where birds gather closely—such as roosting sites or shared feeders. This explains why Victoria’s crow population, known for its massive communal roosts, is seeing a seasonal surge in cases.
To help, Nightingale advises homeowners to keep backyard feeders and birdbaths clean. If sick birds appear, removing feeders temporarily allows birds to disperse, reducing the risk of transmission.
Should People Be Worried?
Despite their spooky appearance, the “zombie” crows along Dallas Road pose no threat to humans. Experts stress there’s no need for alarm—just curiosity and maybe a bit of compassion.
So next time you see a crusty-faced crow, remember: it’s not a scene from a horror flick. It’s simply nature doing what it does—and most of these resilient birds will heal on their own.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn
