Residents have been asked to stay away — and to keep their furry friends away — from Hyde Park’s lakes after sick birds were found.
WA Seabird Rescue told the City of Vincent last month its volunteers had found two sick birds suspected of having botulism.
Botulism is a rare but serious condition caused by toxins from bacteria.
Outbreaks occur in higher temperatures, but vary in severity.
Water testing is underway at the Perth park and the City of Vincent has hired 360 Environmental to monitor the lakes amid rising temperatures.
Mayor Emma Cole said as of Monday, the City had received two monitoring reports that indicated the water was “good with slightly elevated nutrient levels at some sampling locations”.
“No pesticides or hydrocarbons were detected,” Ms Cole said.
She said dormant spores of the bacteria that causes botulism in birds was naturally abundant in the lake sediment but towards the end of summer the spores germinated, leading to outbreaks.
“The City has informed the public of the possible presence of botulism in the lakes through social media posts. On-site signage is being prepared,” she said.
“We are also working with WA Seabird Rescue to treat sick birds and remove dead carcasses, as quick removal of dead birds reduces the spread of botulism. We have installed lake aerators which reduces spore germination.”
Ms Cole said there was minimal risk of catching the disease from the water, but humans and pets were advised to keep away.
UWA professor Anas Ghadouani said with climate change leading to higher temperatures and low water levels in lakes, the “stresses” on urban lakes was greater.
“We need Federal and State government help to work together because the problems are getting more complex,” Dr Ghadouani said.
“The question arises, ‘why do we care about urban lakes?’. With the changing climate, blue and green corridors combined together are what builds resilience and allow communities to sustain heatwaves and climate change.”
Residents who see birds that look unwell are asked to call Seabird Rescue on 6102 8464.