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The agency announced on Monday, Feb. 28 that routine surveillance by DEEP biologists and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) staff detected the presence of avian flu in wild ducks during an inspection.
DEEP officials noted that wild birds can be infected with the virus and show no signs of illness, and as they migrate, the disease can potentially spread to new areas.
Signs of the avian flu include depression, decreased feed and water consumption, decreased egg production, soft or misshapen eggs, and respiratory signs.
“This routine wild bird surveillance program serves as an early warning system, helping us work together to reduce risks of spread to our poultry producers—both large and small,” officials said. “People who own chickens or other game birds need to be aware of and report anything out of the ordinary.”
DEEP officials said they are working with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Department of Public Health, and USDA to monitor the situation.
Anyone who suspects their poultry may have died from unknown causes has been advised to contact the State Veterinarian by calling (8600 713-2505 or emailing ctstate.vet@ct.gov.
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