State environmental and health officials are investigating a suspected outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) affecting Canada geese, swans, and other birds in Plymouth. The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) have issued advisories urging the public to avoid handling dead or sick birds.
Residents are encouraged to report sightings of five or more deceased birds at one location through a form available on mass.gov/reportbirds. For domestic poultry, reports can be made by contacting MDAR’s Division of Animal Health at (617) 626-1795. Pets should be kept away from wildlife as cats are particularly vulnerable to HPAI.
In Plymouth’s Billington Sea, over 60 birds have been affected by this outbreak. Smaller incidents involving fewer than 15 geese have also been reported statewide. Officials are actively collecting and testing these birds to understand the extent of the spread.
Both wild and domesticated birds are susceptible to HPAI, with raptors, waterfowl, and aquatic birds being most at risk. While humans rarely contract avian influenza viruses, those in close contact with infected birds face higher risks.
Further information about HPAI is accessible on MDAR’s Avian Influenza webpage or through DPH’s Avian influenza resources.
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs is committed to safeguarding Massachusetts’ environmental resources while promoting clean energy initiatives. MassWildlife oversees conservation efforts for freshwater fish and wildlife within the state. Meanwhile, MDAR focuses on fostering an equitable agricultural economy and maintaining a safe food system.
