By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania's poultry farmers face an ongoing threat from avian influenza, a disease carried by wild birds. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working to track the spread of this disease by monitoring wild bird populations.
Wildlife biologists with the USDA's Wildlife Services track migration patterns and test waterfowl, such as mallards and teal, for avian influenza. This data helps pinpoint areas at high risk, with Pennsylvania facing peak risk in February and March.
While dabbling ducks are frequent carriers, they rarely show symptoms and continue migrating, spreading the disease. The mild winter posed challenges for sample collection due to limited bird movement until January's snowfall.
Hunter harvests and reported bird deaths contribute to sample collection. The USDA prioritizes testing based on the species and number of birds involved. While backyard flock owners often report dead young birds, the USDA focuses on specific criteria for sampling.
Avian influenza's presence is confirmed by testing across the U.S., highlighting the role of wild birds in transmission. Pennsylvania farmers, particularly those with backyard flocks, need to be vigilant and take precautions. The USDA emphasizes the connection between positive cases in backyard flocks and the presence of waterfowl.
By tracking wild bird migration and testing, the USDA aims to provide crucial information to poultry producers and mitigate the risk of avian influenza outbreaks in Pennsylvania.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Poultry