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Wildlife Help

Avian Influenza

Avian Influenza - Winter 2025

At Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, we are again seeing an uptick in wild birds that are testing positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). For the past several years, this has happened during spring and fall waterfowl migrations and typically affects water birds, game birds, and raptors in our region, but can also affect some mammal species that eat afflicted birds. We have not seen a high number of positives in smaller birds, although all birds are susceptible. Crows, ravens and other birds that feed on dead waterfowl are more likely to come into contact with this virus.

Because of this uptick, we are working closely with partners at the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission (NGPC) and the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services to ensure that we are providing accurate information to the public to protect wildlife, livestock, domestic poultry, and human health. Although the risk to human health is low, it is important to be vigilant and follow all guidelines recommended by public health authorities when handling wildlife.

If you find dead waterfowl, please use the button below to report the sighting and help track cases in Nebraska.

What To Do If You Find a Sick Bird (Winter, 2025)

If you find a live, sick bird:

You may collect it for transport if you are able to wear personal protective equipment including disposable gloves, mask, and eye protection. Place the bird in a cardboard box or kennel and transport to NWR at 9777 M Street in Omaha. (We are open from 11AM to 7PM, 7 days a week.) It is important to remain masked while the bird is in your vehicle.

If you are not able to safely collect the bird yourself, please call your local animal control agency or Nebraska Wildlife Rehab at 402-234-2473 for further instructions.

In the Omaha metro area, the Nebraska Humane Society can be reached at 402-444-7800.

If you find a dead bird:

Report the finding to the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission using the button below.

If the bird is on your property and you would like to dispose of it, wear personal protective equipment including disposable gloves, mask, and eye protection and double bag the bird. Dispose of it in the garbage. (It is important not to leave dead birds out where they can infect other animals if possible.)

NWR is not collecting dead birds for testing at this time.

Remember to wash your hands immediately after handling birds and throw away or disinfect anything you've used that has come into contact with birds. Refer to the DHHS reference linked below for more info!

Helpful Links to Learn More

 

General Information about Avian Influenza

 

Information about Avian Influenza in Nebraska

 

Avian Influenza Statistics

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