Protect Your Flock from Avian Flu

Please be aware that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been detected in poultry and wild birds in Suffolk County as well as in other areas of NYS and the region. This strain of HPAI can infect chickens, turkeys, game birds, ratites (e.g., emus) waterfowl, and a wide variety of wild birds including waterfowl (ducks, geese, etc.), raptors (e.g., eagles, hawks, owls, vultures), and corvids (e.g., rows). HPAI can spread easily from bird to bird as well as through farm equipment, bird manure, clothing and shoes.

All poultry producers, from small backyard hobby producers to large commercial operations, are encouraged to take extra steps to protect their flocks and to report unexplained bird deaths. Visitors to farms are also encouraged to exercise caution to help prevent the spread of HPAI between farms and flocks. This virus is not known to present a public health concern.

To report unexplained high number of bird deaths, please contact the NYS Department of Ag & Markets Division of Animal Industry at (518) 457-3502 or the USDA at (866) 536-7593.

Unusual illness and deaths of wild birds can be reported to the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, (631) 444-0310.

Additional information and resources can be found in the links found to the left or below (the location of links depend on your device and/or screen size).

Last updated April 6, 2023