What should I do if I find a dead bird?

Birds die from many causes, so there typically is no cause for alarm. If you find significant numbers of dead birds, you should report the finding to either NCDA&CS or NC Wildlife Resources Commission.

NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Veterinary Division

vetpoultry@ncagr.gov

(919)-707-2350 option #2

NC Wildlife Resources Commission

NC Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., or email HWI@ncwildlife.org, or call USDA at 866-536-7593.

Am I at risk?

The risk of catching Avian Influenza from a wild bird is extremely low. However, birds may be infected with other pathogens/bugs that can cause human illness without the birds showing signs of being sick themselves (i.e. Salmonella and Campylobacter). Click Here for CDC recommendations.

Do I have to worry about pets eating or bringing dead birds into the house?
Preventing pets from eating wild bird or other animal carcasses or carrying them around is important. The deaths could have been caused by poisoning or a severe bacterial infection.

Additional Resources

US Fish and Wildlife Services

Information for Hunters, Bird Watchers, and Backyard Naturalists About Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (includes handling and cleaning guidance)