April 28, 2024
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3 Canada geese found in Will County test positive for Avian flu

But you can take steps to protect yourself and your birds.

By Denise M. Baran-Unland

After a day of “dating,” Canada geese head back to the safety of open water for the night. (Photo provided)

Three Canada geese located in Will County tested positive for Avian flu, according to a news release from the state of Illinois.

The birds were submitted for testing on March 2. The United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services at the National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed the findings March 10.

This shows the virus may be circulating in Illinois wild bird populations, even though Illinois hasn’t seen Avian flu in backyard or commercial poultry this year, the release said.

Next steps

Bird owners, or anyone involved with poultry production on any level, should protect flocks from wild birds and their droppings, even keeping birds inside, if possible, according to the release.

Flock owners, managers or veterinarians should immediately call the Illinois Department of Agriculture IDOA at 217-782-4944 or the USDA at 866-536-7593 if they see these signs: increase in mortality, decrease in water consumption and/or egg production, coughing and sneezing or any unusual behavior, according to the release.

Goose hunters or others who may encounter sick or deceased wild birds should read this online fact sheet to protect themselves, their poultry and their pets: bit.ly/3MCaW3z.

If you see five or more deceased wild waterfowl, waterbirds or raptors in any single area, call the USDA Wildlife Services at 1-866-487-3297 or a local Illinois Department of Natural Resources district wildlife biologist at bit.ly/3pWfOXf.