Avian Influenza Continues To Be A Concern

          Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) continues to be a concern for North Dakota poultry owners, hunters, and bird enthusiasts. While there have been no new cases reported in North Dakota since November, there have been confirmed cases in Montana and South Dakota within the last two weeks. A larger concern is the high number of confirmed cases of Canada Geese and Snow Geese in southern and central great plains states. As these waterfowl and other migratory birds come north in the spring it is likely that we will see an increase in HPAI cases in North Dakota.

Take precautions with your flocks. If possible don’t let your birds out to mingle with wild birds.

As you plan to purchase chicks for your flock this spring be especially careful of bio-security and maintain separation between new chicks and adult birds. If you are buying adult birds from other backyard flocks or other poultry producers please have a separate quarantine facility available to house your new birds.

 Beware of wild birds which appear to be lethargic or sick. Contact the North Dakota Fish and Game if you see birds that appear to be sick.