The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has identified cases of avian flu in the state’s wild bird population.
Cases of avian flu have been confirmed n free-ranging Canada geese and tundra swans in St. Clair County, snowy owls from Macomb County, and in a mute swan from Monroe County.
The birds identified with the flu in St. Clair County were collected at St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area and sent to labs at Michigan State University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s lab in Ames, Iowa.
Avian influenza is low risk to humans, so the danger lies in transmission to other bird species, including domestic poultry.
Multiple agencies will work together to monitor the spread of avian influenza and monitor the health of poultry, livestock, wildlife, and residents in Michigan.
If you notice the death of three or more free-ranging bird in your yard, report it to the DNR through the Eyes in the Field website <HERE> or by calling 517-336-5030.
If you notice illness or multiple deaths in your domestic poultry, contact MDARD at 800-292-3939.
