Hunters Urged to Follow Bird Flu Safety

NDSU experts share steps to protect domestic flocks

Hunters preparing for fall waterfowl season across the country are reminded to protect domestic birds and livestock from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Experts from North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension warn that the risk of disease transmission rises as hunters interact with wild birds. 

Waterfowl, gulls, terns, and shorebirds are the primary carriers of avian influenza A. The H5N1 strain has been detected in all U.S. migratory flyways. Infected wild birds may show no symptoms but can spread the virus through saliva, mucus, and feces. 

“If you hunt game or wild birds and own domestic poultry or livestock, do not wear hunting clothes or footwear while you are interacting with your poultry or livestock,” said Dr. Jake Galbreath, NDSU Extension veterinarian. 

“The best defense against HPAI is having a biosecurity plan in place,” said Mary Keena, NDSU Extension livestock environmental management specialist. “It is your job as an animal owner to create a line of separation between your clean animals and the potential unclean issues that wildlife or visitors may bring.” 

Key practices include changing clothes and footwear after hunting, cleaning vehicles and equipment exposed to wildlife droppings, field dressing and plucking game birds outdoors, and disinfecting knives and coolers away from animal areas. Visitors should wear clean clothing and disinfect footwear before entering poultry or livestock facilities. Reducing spilled feed and litter around animal housing helps keep wild birds away. 

Hunters should not handle sick or dead game and must wash hands, tools, and surfaces with hot soapy water after cleaning birds. Wearing gloves and a facemask is recommended when handling wild game. Cooking all poultry and game meat to 165°F eliminates any risk of infection. 

Avian influenza is zoonotic, meaning it can spread to humans, though the risk remains low. Hunters should report sick or dead wildlife to local wildlife agencies and follow USDA guidance for surveillance and testing. 

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