You may have heard about avian avian influenza viruses impacting wild birds in New Jersey. There are now confirmed cases in Bucks County as well.
With prolonged freezing temperatures this winter, many natural water sources have frozen over. As a result, waterfowl are gathering at the limited open water areas, creating conditions where viruses can spread more easily.
At this time, farm birds have not been impacted locally, though farmers remain vigilant. As seen in previous outbreaks, birds raised on local farms often fare better than those in large conventional facilities due to lower density, access to fresh air, and more nutrient-dense diets.
What to Watch For:
Symptoms of avian flu in birds may include:
- Lethargy
- Disorientation
- Neurological symptoms (such as circling repeatedly for extended periods)
- Sudden death
How to keep birds safe:
- If you keep backyard chickens, here is information from USDA – Defend the Flock Resource Center
- Observe wildlife from a safe distance
- Keep pets and domestic animals away from areas where infected birds are present as the disease can impact mammals, including humans.
- Avoid contact with surfaces that may be contaminated with feces from wild or domestic birds.
- Do not handle or transport sick or deceased birds. Do not bring them to wildlife rehabilitation centers.
- At this time, bird feeders and baths are perfectly safe. Make sure to clean regularly.
Where to report if you observe:
- Infected wild birds: If you see wild birds that appear to be infected, contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD.
- Infected domestic birds: Any sick or dead domestic birds should be reported to Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture at 717-772-2852.
- Human illness: If you have had contact with sick or dead birds and are not feeling well, contact your primary care physician or the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 877-724-3258.
Sources:
- PA Game Commission – Game Commission Monitoring Avian Influenza in Wild Birds
- AARK Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center – Important HPAI Update
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