Hundreds of snow geese found dead in Pennsylvania amid bird flu scare

Hundreds of snow geese found in Pennsylvania mine appear to have been killed by avian influenzacommonly known as bird fluAccording to the state sports commission.

Officials are currently working on the safe removal birds in Northampton County and testing to confirm the cause Death and assess the scope of the outbreak.

middle creek wildlife Officials said the management area is unaffected, although other areas in the southeast region have been affected.

An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the United States began in January 2022 and has affected both wild and domestic birds in all 50 states.

Pennsylvania experienced a surge in avian influenza in late 2024 and early 2025, with cases later declining but low-level testing continuing. First 2025 case confirmed The outbreak occurred Jan. 27 at a farm with 50,000 birds in domestic poultry in Lehigh County.

In response, the Department of Agriculture and USDA isolated affected farms, tested nearby poultry and dairy operations, and imposed movement restrictions to contain the virus and protect the state’s agricultural industry.

Avian influenza primarily affects birds, but rare human infections can occur, usually through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.

Symptoms are flu-like and can be severe in rare cases. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention They say The risk to the general public is very low, and precautions, such as avoiding sick birds, using protective gear, and cooking poultry thoroughly, help prevent infection.

In November, an older adult in Grays Harbor, Washington became seriously ill with flu-like symptoms and was hospitalized. Investigation confirmed infection with H5N5 avian influenza virus, which was identified first human case Informed.

The patient with underlying health problems died on November 21. The source of infection has not been confirmed, but chickens in the patient’s backyard, which had contact with wild birds, may have contracted the virus.

Pennsylvanians are advised not to handle sick wildlife and instead report it to the Game Commission. People who find sick or dead wild birds in the state should report them to the Game Commission at 1-833-742-9453.

Sick or dead domestic birds should be reported to the Department of Agriculture at 717-772-2852.

Anyone who has been exposed to these birds and feels unwell is advised to contact their doctor or the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 877-724-3258.

Waterfowl hunters are encouraged to continue hunting, but should take safety precautions when handling and dressing birds.