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The Health Unit is Now Collecting Dead Birds

Dead birds infected with the West Nile Virus are early warning signs that West Nile Virus is present in the area. The surveillance of wild birds will include crows, Blue jays, and ravens, as they are the most susceptible to the virus. The health unit is also interested in knowing about large quantities of other species of birds that are found dead.

As part of the West Nile virus surveillance program, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will record reports of dead crows or ravens found by a resident. If you find a dead bird contact the Health Unit at 519-258-2146 ext. 1491 and provide the following information:
• Location of the bird (i.e. street address, postal code, cross streets).
• Condition of the bird (intact, fresh, mauled, feathers ruffled).
• Name and phone number of caller.
• Species of bird (if known).

Not all birds will be collected for testing, especially after WNV is already known to be in the area. You may be asked to
dispose of the dead bird. If you need to dispose of the dead bird:
• Use rubber gloves and a shovel to handle the carcass.
• Bury the carcass at least 1 m (3 ft) deep (it is not recommended that you use a vegetable garden), or double bag the bird in sealed plastic bags and place in the garbage for pickup.
• Throw away the rubber gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.


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