More Dead Birds Found On Beaches

 CHATHAM – With public health and state wildlife officials on high alert for cases of bird flu, local officials are still retrieving dead birds from local beaches.

 Chatham Animal Control Officer Diane Byers said she had hoped the discovery of dead birds would decrease after the end of duck hunting season late last month, but reports have continued.

 “This morning I picked up eight deceased birds at Harding’s Beach and two at Ridgevale. I have a lot of reports from the public for other cases to respond to,” Byers said Tuesday morning. “I plan to respond to every report, but will be prioritizing reports of birds in public places, heavily trafficked areas, and places people are most likely to recreate and walk their dogs.”

 Known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), bird flu is easily transmitted between wild and domesticated birds, putting backyard chicken flocks at particular risk. It can be transmitted to other birds and to mammals by contact with the dead animals or their waste, and poses a risk for people walking their dogs outdoors.

According to state agricultural officials, the public should avoid handling any dead or sick birds, and if they find dead wildlife on their property that must be disposed of, to call the animal control officer for advice. Generally, those handling dead birds are advised to wear disposable gloves and a mask, to double-bag the carcass, and to avoid contact with clothing. People should wash their hands and clothing thoroughly after.

 “I will be treating every deceased bird as though it is infected with HPAI,” Byers said. “I advise the public to do the same, and to call me at 508-945-5111 if they have concerns about bird carcasses.”

State wildlife officials have asked the public to use an online form to report dead or sick birds found in the wild. The form can be found at www.mass.gov/forms/report-observations-of-dead-wild-birds.