What to Do When You Find A Dead Bird

The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) has discontinued testing of dead birds for West Nile virus (WNV) in Maryland. West Nile virus has now been detected in human and animal populations in nearly all jurisdictions in Maryland, and is expected to return each year.  In recent years, WNV activity has dropped steadily in Maryland and surrounding states. State and local health officials continue to monitor this activity through surveillance of mosquito and human populations.

If you find a dead bird, please dispose of it as follows:

(1) Wear plastic or latex gloves or use a plastic bag as a glove
(2) With your gloved hand, place or wrap the bird in a plastic bag and tie the bag securely (alternatively, a shovel may be used to pick up bird)
(3) Dispose of the bag (and gloves) in an outdoor trash receptacle, and
(4) Wash your hands with soap and water.

Sick or injured birds should be reported to your local wildlife rehabilitator. Call 1-877-463-6497 for a list of licensed rehabilitators or visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources web site at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/rehab.asp .

Maryland residents seeking general information about West Nile virus should visit the Maryland West Nile Virus Information Page at /edcp/html/west_nile.cfm or should call their local health department.

For more information about West Nile virus, please contact your local health department or the Center for Veterinary Public Health at (410) 767 – 5649.