RICHMOND—The public is encouraged to report sick or dead birds to help prevent the spread of avian flu.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources recently has seen an uptick in reports of sick or dead birds in the eastern part of the state. Infected birds have been found in the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula and in Hampton Roads.

Numerous species of shorebirds and waterbirds have been reported, but grebes, sanderlings and gulls appear to be the most affected. Preliminary testing indicates that the likely cause is H5N1, or highly pathogenic avian influenza.

“Domestic poultry is highly susceptible to the current H5N1 strain of avian flu,” noted Tony Banks, senior assistant director of agriculture, development and innovation for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. “Wild bird monitoring for avian influenza by USDA and state wildlife agencies provides an early warning system for the introduction and distribution of these viruses. This allows animal health officials and the poultry industry to take quick action to reduce the risk of disease spread to poultry farms.”

DWR is working closely with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Virginia Department of Health to ensure all Virginians and agricultural producers are aware of the increased detection of sick or dead wild birds, noted John Tracey, state wildlife veterinarian.

Waterfowl, and some shorebird and seabird species, often show minimal or no signs of illness when infected. However, these species still can transmit the virus to other birds that may get sick or die from the infection, including domestic poultry, raptors and upland birds.

During the spring months, Virginia experiences numerous species of birds traveling overhead as they migrate to northern states and Canada. This can increase the chances of HPAI being transmitted to local wild populations and commercial flocks.

Notify DWR by calling the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 855-571-9003, or email wildlifehealth@dwr.virginia.gov if any of the following are observed:

• Five or more dead vultures, waterfowl, shorebirds or seabirds found in the same area;
• Sick or dead eagles, hawks, owls or turkeys, excluding carcasses found on the road; or
• Ten or more other wild bird species found dead in the same area.

Media: Contact Banks at 804-514-5207, Tracey at 804-877-6259 or Mike Wallace, VDACS communications director, at 804-786-1904.