Dead Bird Surveillance
See a Dead Bird? Report and Submit it to Help Protect Our Community
Why Dead Birds Matter
Dead birds—especially crows, blue jays, ravens, and other perching birds—can be an early warning that mosquito-borne diseases are in our area. Testing them helps us find viruses before they spread to people or animals. By testing dead birds, we can detect viruses like:
- West Nile Virus (WNV)
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
- St. Louis Encephalitis, and others
Finding these viruses early means we can take action to protect the community.
What Is Dead Bird Surveillance?
Dead bird surveillance is how we track and respond to diseases spread by mosquitoes. Birds are tested at the Thangamani Lab at Upstate Medical University, and results help guide mosquito control and other prevention steps.
Why It’s Important
Reporting and submitting dead birds for testing helps:
- Detect virus activity early—before people or pets get sick
- Support mosquito control work
- Prevent disease outbreaks
What You Can Do
If you find a dead bird on your property or in your neighborhood, here’s how you can help:
1. Report It: call (315) 435-1649
2. Collect (if directed):
- Only fresh birds (within 24 hrs, no decay/maggots)
- Wear gloves and use a bag
- Double-bag the bird
- Keep it cool (refrigerate, don’t freeze)
3. Drop it off: 4170 Rt 31, Clay | Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
This small action can make a big difference in keeping our community healthy.
Is it Safe to Handle Dead Birds?
There is no evidence that West Nile Virus spreads directly from birds to humans through casual contact.
However, for safety:
- Do not touch any dead bird with your bare hands
- Always use gloves or an inverted plastic bag to handle the bird
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling
QUESTIONS?
- Call: Vector Control at (315) 435-1649
Thank you for helping us monitor and protect public health.
Together, we can reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in our community.