City of Marshfield’s Ordinance Enforcement and DNR advises the public to minimize contact with wildlife that look sick due to possible avian influenza.
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – In December, several dead wild geese were found on the ice at Wildwood Park’s upper and lower ponds in Marshfield. These geese were not zoo animals. The investigation involved agencies such as Marshfield’s Ordinance Enforcement, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Raptor Education Group, Inc., REGI, and the Wood County Health Department.
The DNR conducted necropsies and confirmed that the cause of death was avian influenza (Bird Flu). Once ice conditions were safe, the remaining deceased geese were removed. Soon after, a barn owl and a crow were also found dead, and the DNR suspects avian influenza, though test results are pending.
Avian influenza is widespread in wild birds worldwide, causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows. While the current public health risk is low, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is monitoring the situation carefully and working with states to monitor people with animal exposure.
The DNR advises the public to minimize disease spread by avoiding contact with wildlife, refraining from feeding them, practicing good hygiene, and reporting sick or dead birds to the DNR at 1-800-936-7463 or by emailing [email protected].
The animals at Wildwood Zoo are cared for daily by professionally trained staff who monitor them for health-related issues. They are also fed a special diet made by zoo staff. Currently, all the animals in the zoo are free from illnesses.
The City’s Ordinance Enforcement Officer/Zoning Administrator staff encourages residents who keep backyard chickens to be vigilant and in accordance with City Municipal Code 9.52. If your birds look sick or dying, contact the Wisconsin DNR at the number above. Remaining vigilant also includes avoiding touching sick birds and practicing good hand washing if contact is unavoidable.
We welcome your stories! Contact us at [email protected]!