Snow Geese And Avian Flu Reporting

Watch Snow Geese land in Oklahoma in my video and learn how you can help track avian flu by reporting sick or dead waterfowl to the AGFC.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) has asked the public to report avian flu cases in Snow Geese and other waterfowl. Hunters and wildlife watchers are encouraged to report any sick or dead birds they encounter.

• Reporting Guidelines:
  • Contact the AGFC’s wildlife health program through www.agfc.com/avianflu.
  • Include the species, number of birds affected, and location.
• Current Situation:
  Dr. Jenn Ballard, AGFC state wildlife veterinarian, states:
  • This marks the third year since Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was detected in the U.S.
  • Most reports this year involve juvenile Snow Geese.

Periodic outbreaks are expected to continue.

Snow Geese on the wing at Sequoyah NWR

• Safety Precautions:
  • Avoid handling sick or dead birds.
  • Report concentrations of sick or dead birds to the AGFC.
  • Follow safety guidelines when handling, cleaning, and preparing harvested waterfowl.
• For Oklahoma:
  Although the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation has not specifically requested reports of Snow Geese affected by avian flu, Oklahomans can report wild bird cases to USDA Wildlife Services at (405) 521-4039.

I’m certain that other states have protocols for reporting birds with avian flu; please check your state’s department of wildlife for information.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Snow Goose photos plus facts and information about this species.

Related Posts