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Dead Birds |
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Birds can serve as early warning signs of West Nile virus activity. West Nile virus infects birds before it is passed on to humans or horses. Many species of birds may become infected, but only a few species are prone to die from an infection.
There are three types of birds prone to die from West Nile virus in our area. Crows, blue jays, and birds of prey are the only birds tested for WNV. |
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Crows are large, black birds that are bigger than your foot. Smaller black starlings and grackles are not tested for WNV. |
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Blue Jays |
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Birds of Prey (Hawks, Eagles, Falcons, Owls) |
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Grackle: not tested Medium-sized, iridescent |
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Starling: not tested Small, brownish |
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May 1 - October 30 |
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Testing A Bird For West Nile Virus Qualifications: 1. Crow, blue jay, or bird of prey (no other birds). 2. Not obviously killed by something other than disease (not killed by an animal, hit by car, shot, etc.) 3. Not more than 24 hours old (no rotting or maggots)
To drop off a bird, deliver it in a plastic bag to the Penn State Cooperative Extension Office located at: 2120 Cornwall Rd, Lebanon, PA, 17042 (near Expo/Fairgrounds)
To arrange for a pick-up call the office at 717.270.4391
Note: Do not handle dead birds with bare hands. This kind of contact exposes you to disease and parasites. Use disposable gloves or an inverted plastic bag (like picking up after a dog in the park).
Carcasses that cannot be tested should be disposed of. |
