EASTERN SHORE, Va. — Concerns about avian influenza are ramping up on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) says it is receiving increasing reports of sick or dead wild birds in the area. Preliminary testing indicates that the likely cause in several cases was H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza.
DWR is tracking the extent of bird flu in Virginia’s wild birds and is requesting the public’s assistance.
Watch related coverage: Poultry growers take precaution after case of bird flu on Eastern Shore
If you observe any of the following, please notify DWR by calling the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 855-571-9003 or emailing wildlifehealth@dwr.virginia.gov.
- Five or more dead vultures, waterfowl, shorebirds, or seabirds in the same area within five days
- Sick or dead eagles, hawks, owls, or turkeys, excluding ones found on the road
- Ten or more dead wild birds of any species in the same area within five days
The public is advised to avoid picking up or handling sick or dead wild birds. DWR says if you must dispose of a dead bird on your property, wear rubber gloves and other personal protective equipment, such as a mask and eye protection. Dead birds should be buried or double-bagged and disposed of in a covered outdoor trash can or landfill.
The Virginia Cooperative Extension in Northampton County says that on February 13, they’re going to host a small farm workshop focusing on safety with poultry. For more information, click here.
