This winter, avian influenza viruses have continued to circulate in wild birds across Pennsylvania, and more birds will be migrating to and through the state in the coming weeks. Strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus have been present in Pennsylvania’s wild birds since early 2022. As migration unfolds, the Pennsylvania Game Commission continues to respond to the outbreak, and is asking the public to report any wild birds observed sick or found dead. Submitting reports allows the Game Commission the opportunity to step in with wildlife-management actions including dispatching sick wild birds, recovering and removing carcasses, pursuing diagnostic testing, and conducting stakeholder outreach. Wild birds are natural carriers of avian influenza viruses and bird migration enables the disease to be spread over vast distances.

Source: The Herald February 27, 2026 06:20 UTC