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In Australia, parrots affected by a mysterious disease fell from the sky (photo)

Bylim Olena

In Australia, parrots affected by a mysterious disease fell from the sky (photo)
A parrot paralyzed during a flight. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland

Rainbow lorikeets, known for their colorful plumage, have fallen victim to a mysterious disease that causes them to fall from the sky paralyzed. More than 200 affected birds have been spotted in Australia and diagnosed with Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS).

According to Scientific American, Lorikeet paralysis syndrome causes parrots to lose their ability to fly and fall to the ground paralyzed. The birds become lethargic, thin and show signs of malnutrition. Many lorikeets do not survive, even with intensive rehabilitation.

It is noted that researchers have not been able to find a pathogen or environmental toxin responsible for LPS. The disease affects birds only in the Australian summer months. Scientists rule out that the birds could have been poisoned by fermented mango fruit.

Scientists try to save paralyzed birds. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Scientists try to save paralyzed birds. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Scientists try to save paralyzed birds. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Scientists try to save paralyzed birds. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Scientists try to save paralyzed birds. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Scientists try to save paralyzed birds. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Lorikeets parakeets. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland
Lorikeets parakeets. Source: Peter Wilson/RSPCA Queensland

Scientists believe that the paralysis of the birds could have been influenced by a toxin formed in certain fruits at certain times of the year. The birds may have been exposed to pesticides or fungicides that are sprayed on the fruit.

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