Dead Birds
What do I do if I find a dead bird?
West Nile Virus and Avian Flu have raised everyone's awareness and
concern when they see a dead bird. Dead birds can be of interest
to health officials and scientists.
If you are concerned about health issues you can contact your local health department or the National Wildlife Health Center.
Proceed in collecting or disposing of the dead bird as
directed. In many cases health departments will not be able
to use a bird that has already started to decay. If you do pick up the
bird be sure to wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
After any health and safety issues have been resolved, your efforts
might turn to collecting the bird for scientists at universities or
museums. Start by contacting a wildlife professional that has a
federal and state permit to collect birds or bird parts. Remember the
bird’s location. Do not pick up the bird without permission, because
this is illegal. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects birds
and bird parts (feathers, eggs, and nests) by forbidding anyone without
a permit to own or handle birds or bird parts. Though at first glance
the law may seem overly strict, it serves an important conservation
purpose by allowing authorities to curtail activities that adversely
affect birds.
For more information in donating a bird for scientific study, read the Spring 2000 issue of BirdScope.