The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is closely tracking a resurgence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds across the state, mainly north of Interstate 80. The increase coincides with waterfowl migration and extreme cold stress. HPAI, specifically the H5N1 strain, which has been circulating since 2022, has affected wild birds in North America at unprecedented levels. DNR Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Rachel Ruden says, “We started seeing the number of HPAI detections in apparently healthy hunter harvests ramp up in mid-November. Just a couple weeks later we started responding to sick and dead geese.” The virus can impact other animals, including eagles and foxes, that consume infected carcasses. Residents should report findings of multiple sick or dead birds to local wildlife biologists or conservation officers. The DNR urges the public to avoid sick waterfowl and cautions hunters to take precautions while field-dressing wild game. Cooking meat to 165°F eliminates the virus. Poultry producers and backyard flock owners should monitor for signs of HPAI and report concerns to state officials.
