‘Worst strain ever recorded’ of avian flu killing countless birds in Colorado
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Colorado Parks and Wildlife has confirmed that a new strain of avian flu is killing large numbers of birds across the state and the U.S.
The strain was first discovered in fall and winter of 2021 and is described by a CPW official as "the worst strain ever recorded."
The strain is the same that has spread to some chickens and other domestic birds, forcing some poultry providers to euthanize many of its fowl and leading to higher prices for and shortages of eggs.
Social media has been active recently with reports of people seeing large numbers of dead birds and expressing concern about the situation.
CPW said that the worst outbreak of the strain -- highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI -- is occurring since November, primarily around reservoirs in northeastern and southeastern Colorado, affecting largely snow geese and other migratory birds.
Around 600 geese have died between John Martin Reservoir, in Bent County, and Lamar, in Prowers County, CPW said.
The local chapter of the Audubon Society said that some birds have died around Prospect Lake, in Colorado Springs, and at Big Johnson Reservoir, in El Paso County; CPW has confirmed that eight Canada geese were found dead at the lake this week and are being tested for the virus.
At this point, only relatively small numbers of dead birds have been reported in the Pikes Peak region, but CPW said that the outbreak will likely continue through spring when bird migrations resume.
Seasonal bird migrations are believed to be responsible for spreading the virus; CPW said that avian flu has been deadliest to snow geese, vultures and raptors (birds of prey).
"We're studying it and trying to learn all we can about it," said CPW spokesman Travis Duncan. "It's too soon to know what the long-term impact will be on bird populations. But we recommend that you don't touch a dead bird because it can be transmitted to humans. Just contact our local office and report if you see three or more dead birds within a two-week period. We'll come out and investigate, We're not overwhelmed with testing dead birds -- as some people think -- because we're testing based on species and where a bird came from."
Symptoms of avian flu in humans can range from mild to deadly; and you may be unaware that you have it.
Linda Hodges belongs to the local 900-member Aiken Audubon Society, and said that the virus is yet another blow to the fragile bird population.
“Mainly because of habitat loss and habitat fragmentation and climate change are the big factors," she explained. "And of course, cats and building collisions, as well.”
Hodges said that some residents are taking down bird feeders and draining bird baths to help limit the spread of the virus.
"We have no guidance on that," said CPW spokesman Bill Vogrin. "We don't like bird feeders anyway, because they attract bears and can make deer sick."
