Here’s What, When, and How to Report a Dead Bird in Connecticut

As the weather warms up, reports are increasing of dead birds taken out by the bird flu in Connecticut. If this happens to you, what, how, and when should you report your discovery? I have answers.

The State of Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's Wildlife Division is working hard to keep us safe from the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), and they need your help. According to a social media post from Connecticut Fish and Wildlife, viral activity in Connecticut remains high and dead wild birds have been reported. Many state and government agencies are involved in the efforts to contain the bird flu, and it can be confusing as to what and where your sad discovery should be reported.

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Just last week, I read reports of numerous dead bird discoveries in the North end of my hometown of Torrington on social media. Local residents reported that they saw 4-6 dead geese along the Naugatuck River and were worried that other local wildlife was at risk.

If you spot a dead wild bird: Duck, goose, swan, hawk, owl, even a house sparrow, report it to the CT DEEP via their online Wild Bird Mortality Reporting Survey.

If you have sick poultry, an unexplained high number of deaths, a sudden drop in egg production, or sudden reduction in water or food intake amongst your poultry, contact the State Veterinarian at 860-713-2505, or email ctstate.vet@ct.gov. I hope that we can all help to try and contain this threat.