Avian Influenza Strikes Oregon’s Migrating Waterfowl, With Willamette Valley Most Affected

Avian Influenza Impact Worsens for Oregon Waterfowl

Oregon is witnessing a growing impact of avian influenza among its migrating waterfowl, with the Willamette Valley reporting the highest numbers of sick and dead birds according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). The situation is prompting wildlife officials to increase public awareness and urge caution in interactions with wild birds.

Cackling Geese Among Hardest-Hit Bird Populations

State wildlife health staff have observed many geese passing through Oregon displaying clear signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Notably, Cackling geese—a smaller subspecies of the Canada goose—are among the species most affected. While only a few incidents have occurred on the Oregon coast over the last year and a half, and none since early January, central and western regions like the Willamette Valley are experiencing more significant impacts.

Public Health Notice and Avian Influenza Prevention Recommendations

ODFW officials urge residents statewide to avoid touching sick or dead birds and to prevent pets from coming into contact with affected wildlife. People handling bird carcasses are advised to wear disposable gloves and a mask, and to place the remains in two plastic bags for disposal in regular trash. Because wild mammals can become sick if they consume infected birds, the public is also being asked to report mammals displaying neurological symptoms or signs of illness.

ODFW explains, "There is no effective treatment for HPAI-infected wild and domestic birds, and the virus can spread rapidly among bird populations and potentially to other wildlife. Because of this, sick birds cannot go to a wildlife rehabilitation center and should not be captured live by the public."

Monitoring and Reporting Procedures in Place

Wildlife health biologists continue to monitor the outbreak by collecting and testing birds affected by the virus. While additional laboratory samples are currently unnecessary, the public is encouraged to report groups of dead birds not displaying obvious signs of avian influenza. Reports can be made by calling 866-968-2600 or emailing wildlife.health@odfw.oregon.gov; however, high report volumes may limit staff response times.

For domestic birds such as chickens, turkeys, and guinea fowl showing signs of illness or found dead, immediate reporting is recommended. The Oregon Department of Agriculture can be reached at 503-986-4711 or 800-347-7028 for these cases.

Recognizing Avian Influenza Symptoms in Birds

Avian influenza symptoms among wild waterfowl include:

• Lethargy and difficulty flying
• Erratic behavior and loss of coordination
• Cloudy eyes, head shaking, and swimming in circles

Some duck species may carry the avian flu virus without showing any signs, spreading it through their droppings and contaminating wetlands. Affected birds frequently die within days after recognizing symptoms.

Low Human Infection Risk, but Continued Precautions Encouraged

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the risk of avian influenza infection in humans remains low. Since 2024, 74 human cases and three deaths have been reported nationwide associated with avian flu exposure.

Further information about protecting backyard flocks and ways to prevent avian influenza in domestic and wild birds can be found through ODFW resources and the CDC.

Source: beachconnection.net.