Harrisburg, PA – According to Tri-County Independent, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) has called on the public to report sightings of sick or dead wild birds as it continues to track the spread of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, across the state.
The agency has been vigilant in monitoring the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in migratory birds since its initial detection in Pennsylvania in early 2022. A notable incident occurred in mid-December 2025 and into January 2026, when approximately 2,000 birds, predominantly snow geese, succumbed to the virus in a quarry located in Northampton County. This event underscored the ongoing threat the disease poses to wildlife populations.
On February 23, 2026, the PGC reiterated its request for residents to contact the hotline at 833-PGC-WILD (833-742-9453) upon observing any abnormal behavior or mortality in wild birds. Such reports enable the commission’s staff to implement swift wildlife management measures, including the humane dispatch of affected birds, removal of carcasses, diagnostic testing, and outreach to stakeholders.
Collaboration with partners such as the Wildlife Futures Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in these response efforts. Dr. Andrew Di Salvo, the PGC’s wildlife veterinarian, emphasized the dedication of the team’s work over the past five years in addressing suspected outbreaks. He noted that while not every report can be investigated due to logistical constraints, priorities are set for incidents involving potential risks to humans, domestic animals, public areas like parks, or large-scale die-offs that could impact scavenging wildlife.
The PGC encourages waterfowl hunters and those pursuing upland game birds to participate in open seasons while adhering to strict hunting precautions. Recommended safety measures include wearing nitrile gloves, protective eyewear, and masks when handling or field-dressing birds to minimize exposure risks. Beyond waterfowl and shorebirds, the virus has shown potential to severely affect wild turkeys, grouse, raptors like hawks and eagles, and scavengers such as crows and ravens.
This proactive approach aims to safeguard both wildlife and public health amid the spring migration period, when bird movements could facilitate further spread. The commission’s ongoing surveillance helps inform management strategies and ensures that Pennsylvania’s diverse avian populations remain resilient. For detailed guidance on avian influenza, including symptoms in birds and reporting protocols, the PGC maintains comprehensive resources on its official website.
In addition to public reporting, the agency prioritizes educational outreach to hunters and landowners, reinforcing the importance of biosecurity practices. These efforts not only mitigate immediate threats but also contribute to long-term conservation goals by preventing widespread impacts on bird species essential to the state’s ecosystems. As migration patterns intensify, continued vigilance from citizens will be vital in supporting the PGC’s mission to protect Pennsylvania’s natural heritage. For more information, visit Tri-County Independent.