Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS) is a seasonal illness that affects wild rainbow lorikeets, leaving them paralyzed and unable to fly. This condition tends to occur between October and June, with the highest number of cases observed from December to February. As a result, wildlife care facilities in southeastern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales are inundated with sick lorikeets during these periods. Providing care for these afflicted birds requires immediate and intensive attention, followed by extended rehabilitation efforts, placing significant strain on veterinary resources and wildlife caregivers.
Despite ongoing research, the exact cause of LPS remains unknown. Scientists suspect that it may be linked to the ingestion of a toxic plant native to southern Queensland and northern New South Wales. The seasonal pattern of LPS suggests that the toxic plant might bloom or bear fruit during the October to June period. Additionally, the non-random distribution of affected lorikeet habitats indicates that if a toxic plant is indeed responsible, it likely thrives in specific areas while being absent in others, highlighting the need for further investigation into its exact nature and distribution.
Ways to get involved -
- If you live in the affected area you can help by following this link: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/our-research/research-areas/veterinary-science/lorikeet-paralysis-syndrome-project.html#:~:text=Lorikeet%20Paralysis%20Syndrome%20(LPS)%20is,happening%20between%20December%20and%20February.
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