Zombie pigeons in the UK: Mystery bird illness turns living birds into zombiesBirds infected with the virus will usually die within a few days but this is long enough for it to keep spreading between birdsigeons who fall ill with pigeon paramyxovirus, a disease also known as PPMV or Newcastle’s Disease, will experience a range of neurological symptoms, such as a violently twisted neck and trembling wings.They also dramatically lose weight, have green droppings, walk in circles (often meaning they can’t fly), and are reluctant to move.While the disease cannot affect humans, it can cause conjunctivitis in those handling the sick birds and so caution is advised.There haven’t been recorded cases on the mainland yet, and officials in Jersey are putting down birds in the hopes of preventing the spread of the disease any further.The government has released advice to those who own or handle pigeons, recommending: “Vaccinating your pigeons against the disease – talk to your vet for advice [if you run pigeons shows or races, you must ensure any bird taking part has been vaccinated] and practising strict biosecurity on your premises.”JSPCA Animal Shelter on the island of Jersey in the Channel Islands has been leading attempts to contain the disease, telling the Mirror that the illness has no treatment “and many birds die within a few days”."