West Nile virus infects a certain species of wild birds. These birds, known as Corvid species, are known to die from infection from West Nile. Reporting these dead birds is a good way to check for activity in the environment so prevention and control implementations can be taken to minimize the spread of West Nile virus.
There is no evidence that handling dead birds can transmit West Nile. Nebraska residents are strongly encouraged to report and submit dead birds. Here are some guidelines for reporting a dead bird:
- Bird cannot be deceased for more than 24 hours.
- Bird must be undamaged; it cannot have bullet fragments, missing limbs, or any obvious lesions.
- Bird has to be of the Corvid species. Please see the pictures below for reference.
If you found a bird that meets these criteria on your property, please place in plastic bag and chill, then immediately contact PPHD for collection.
