Wild ducks, geese, pheasants, turkey and many other species can play a role in the spread of avian flu that is affecting the health of chickens and avian species across the world. Photo from the late Joe Forma wildlife collection

As licensed outdoors people who intend to hunt wild things lawfully and carefully, the cost of eggs has allowed many of us to ask questions about the mystery of avian influenza. The $1.29 price for a dozen chicken eggs has cackled to over $5 last week. Avian flu is a viral disease in wild birds such as ducks and geese, gulls, raptors, and shorebirds that is commonly called “bird flu.” According to the NYSDEC, some bird flu viruses are more severe than others, affecting domestic gamebirds and poultry like chickens, turkeys, and other birds. Those that cause severe disease in poultry are called Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) viruses. Reports from reliable sources indicate that these viruses can spread quickly in affected flocks.

DEC reports that in early 2022, HPAI was detected in wild birds across several eastern states. The first case of HPAI in New York was found in Suffolk County in February (2022). At present, HPAI has been detected across the entire country, including much of New York State. Some infected wild birds carry the virus without getting sick, which allows the virus to continue to circulate in bird populations. Mammals, especially carnivores and scavengers that may eat infected animals, become ill and die from HPAI. Dairy cattle in some states have also been detected with HPAI. The USDA tracks all detections across the country and offers guidance on how to “Defend the Flock.” The NYSDEC is working with the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the NYS Department of Health, and the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab to monitor HPAI in New York.

For hunters and those who consume wild game birds, the risk of infection is low. However, you can ensure your safety by only harvesting wild game that appears healthy. Cooking any game meat to an internal temperature of 165° F is crucial, as it effectively kills the virus. When handling live or dead wild birds, especially waterfowl, gulls, and raptors, it’s important to use personal protective equipment like masks, gloves, eye protection, and rubber boots (which should be cleaned after use). Remember to wash your hands thoroughly when finished, following these safety measures will provide you with a sense of security and protection.

Of particular interest are reports of suspected outbreaks in all species of waterfowl (like ducks or geese), raptors (such as hawks and eagles), crows, shorebirds, and other waterbirds such as gulls, loons, and herons. DEC says that responses to these reports will be guided by the number of dead birds, bird species, and new areas where officials have not documented HPAI yet. Once HPAI is on the landscape, there is currently no way to effectively manage this disease in wild birds. In most cases, there will be no direct response.

The DEC advises the public to play a crucial role in preventing the spread of HPAI. This can be done by avoiding any contact with sick or dead birds and mammals that may be infected. Biosecurity measures are in effect at egg production facilities across the country, and if you raise your own chickens and have questions, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.

For more information about the risk of HPAI to humans, visit the NYS Department of Health website and this NYSDEC link: https://dec.ny.gov/nature/wildlife-health/animal-diseases. If you encounter a live, sick bird or mammal, contact our Regional DEC office or a local wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. Do NOT handle, transport or euthanize any sick birds or other wildlife yourself.

Gotta love the outdoors.