Michigan DNR suspects bird flu in deaths of 300 wild birds

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources released a statement on Tuesday saying more than 300 wild birds likely died due to bird flu.

Dead birds were found in more than five counties.

More than 80 Canada geese were found dead near the Shiawassee River in Owosso. Around 25 dead Canada geese were found near Williamston Lakes in Ingham County, 20 were found near the Grand River in Grand Ledge.

DNR staffers also found 77 dead geese in Allegan County and 100 dead birds in Washtenaw County.

Preliminary testing led the DNR to believe bird flu was involved in the mass die-offs.

The bird flu is a respiratory disease that is highly contagious among birds and mammals.

The DNR reminded Michiganders to leave dead birds alone. If a bird dies on your property and must be moved:

• Wear shoes that can be disinfected and disposable or rubber gloves.
• Wear a face mask and eye protection to protect your nose, mouth, and eyes from accidental splashes that may contain the virus.
• If handling multiple wild birds, wear rain bibs or a waterproof apron over clothing. In a pinch, you can wear a large plastic garbage bag with holes cut for your arms and neck.
• Disinfect the protective layers and wash clothes immediately afterward.
• Discard disposable personal protective equipment, disinfect all other PPE and clothing, and wash hands thoroughly when done.

MORE BIRD FLU NEWS: Michigan Department of Agriculture meets to discuss bird flu

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