At least 50 snow geese have been found dead on Seneca Lake in Upstate New York, prompting health officials to test the birds for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or bird flu. The birds were discovered at Kashong Point on the lake’s west side on Thursday.
Similar cases of dead birds have been reported at Lakeshore Landing in Romulus, Seneca County, where tests confirmed HPAI. Ontario County and Yates County public health departments are monitoring an unusually high number of dead snow geese in the Finger Lakes region.
While there is no cause for alarm, surveillance is necessary to track the outbreak. The risk to humans is low, but residents are advised to exercise caution when disposing of dead birds.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that human infections from bird flu are rare, but can occur if direct exposure occurs through the eyes, nose, or mouth. People working with birds and cows are at higher risk of infection, and farmers should report sick livestock to their veterinarians.
Source: https://www.syracuse.com/outdoors/2025/01/50-snow-geese-found-dead-on-upstate-ny-lake.html