The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has expanded its contract with the US Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to collect dead wild birds, including waterfowl and raptors, due to a highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak. The $30,000 contract expansion will provide additional staff and services until September.
Reports have confirmed HPAI in seven dead snow geese found in Worcester and Dorchester counties, as well as several Eastern Shore poultry farms. The federal agency will direct its staff or state personnel to report locations of sick or dead birds.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture is urging poultry farm owners to follow biosecurity guidelines to prevent the spread of HPAI. This includes restricting access to poultry areas, ensuring contaminated materials are not transported into growing houses, and providing footbaths and disinfectant stations for visitors.
When handling wild birds or interacting with infected poultry, people should take precautions: wash hands immediately, use disposable gloves, cook harvested waterfowl to 165 degrees, and follow dedicated clothing and equipment guidelines. The risk to human health is considered low, but caution is advised.
Outdoor activities like hiking and photography are safe as long as precautions are taken to avoid sick or dead birds. More information on HPAI and biosecurity measures can be found on the US Department of Agriculture’s website.
Source: https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2025/01/17/marylander-hunters-and-birders-should-be-vigilant-against-avian-influenza