Game and Fish: highly pathogenic avian influenza found in wild birds in Wyoming

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has reported that two great horned owls from Park County, one Canadian goose from Bighorn County and two Canadian geese from Fremont County have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza. The Game and Fish has been monitoring for the virus’ presence in wild birds.

According to a release from the Game and Fish, the presence of the virus in Wyoming was identified by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory and confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, IA. Game and Fish is now asking the public for assistance and to report groups of dead birds to the department.

“We expected to see HPAI in wild birds after it was identified in domestic flocks in Wyoming,” Wildlife Health Laboratory Supervisor Hank Edwards said. “Game and Fish is relying on reports from the public to learn more about the distribution in our state — especially from hunters and people who spend a lot of time outdoors. Anyone who finds clusters of three or more dead wild birds — waterfowl, grouse, turkeys and raptors — please contact your regional Game and Fish office.”

According to the department, wild birds can carry HPAI and not appear sick. Some birds might exhibit signs of neurological impairment or may be found dead with no apparent cause of death.

HPAI is considered a zoonotic disease, which can infect humans. Game and Fish reminds the public to not touch or handle sick or dead birds, and do not allow domestic animals like dogs and cats to feed on sick or dead birds.

To report clusters of dead birds call the nearest Game and Fish Regional Office. The Sheridan Regional Game and Fish Office can be reached by calling 307-672-7418. 

For more info on HPAI and to track cases in wild birds, visit the Game and Fish website.