Guest guest Posted February 22, 2002 Report Share Posted February 22, 2002 http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/newse/20020221wo71.htm Mystery disease threatens rare ptarmigans 21 Feb 2002 Yomiuri Shimbun Environment Ministry officials are worried about the future of the rare ptarmigan bird after failing to identify the illness that killed one of two ptarmigans found in November in Tateyama-murodo area in Tateyamamachi, Toyama Prefecture, one of the few spots inhabited by the protected species. Ptarmigan--basically a grouse with feathered feet--are designated as special animals under state protection. It is the first time that ailing ptarmigans have been found in the area since surveys to monitor numbers started in 1972. The ministry has organized a research team to investigate the cause of the disease. " Other ptarmigans could catch the disease if it is caused by a bacteria or virus, " a ministry spokesperson said. According to the ministry, of 10 ptarmigans counted in a survey of the area in November, two showed signs of a mysterious disease. The birds' skin under their wings was infected and they had lost some feathers. Copyright 2002 The Yomiuri Shimbun Sports - Coverage of the 2002 Olympic Games http://sports. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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