November 11, 2026 2:50 a.m. 

Many of the geese migrating through Oregon are showing signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza with many other sick and dead birds being reported to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

An ODFW release said the majority of these reports currently are from the Willamette Valley and the Cackling goose – a smaller subspecies of the Canada goose – appears to be the most heavily affected.

ODFW urges people to avoid contact with sick birds and keep pets away. Dead birds can be disposed of – it is recommended to wear disposable gloves and a mask, and double-bag the carcass before putting it in the trash.

There is no effective treatment for HPAI-infected wild and domestic birds, and the virus can spread rapidly among bird populations and potentially to other wildlife. That means that sick birds cannot go to a wildlife rehabilitation center and should not be captured live by the public.

Typical symptoms in wild waterfowl include lethargy, inability to fly, erratic behavior, loss of coordination, cloudy eyes, swimming in circles, and head shaking. However, some dabbling ducks may carry the virus without symptoms, spreading it through their feces to other birds and wetlands. Birds usually die within 72 hours of showing clinical signs.

Infected wild mammals may appear sick or neurologically abnormal, or be found dead after consuming infected birds, and should also be reported.

Those who see dead or sick domestic birds should immediately call the Oregon Department of Agriculture by calling 503-986-4711 or 800-347-7028.