Bird Disease Reporting Impacts Some Area Counties

Presented By Classic Brands

(Columbus) — Recently, it has been observed that songbirds in Ohio are being affected by a disease. The primary species affected at this time are blue jays, common grackles, European starlings, American robins, and house sparrows. Ohio counties experiencing the bulk of the outbreak so far include Brown, Butler, Clark, Clermont, Delaware, Franklin, Greene, Hamilton, Montgomery, and Warren counties.

No definitive cause(s) of illness or death have been determined at this time. We advise that people please stop feeding birds, and take down and clean bird feeders and birdbaths with 10% bleach solution, particularly if they are seeing sick/dead birds in their area (as recommended by USGS). Doing these things can help slow the spread of the disease.

If You Find an Alive/Diseased Bird

If you observe sick birds with these symptoms and/or neurological issues (such as loss of balance, coordination) then please contact your nearest licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

If You Find a Dead/Diseased Bird

The Ohio Division of Wildlife appreciates reports of dead birds that exhibit symptoms such as crusty, bulging, or sunken eyes. Please submit a report online in our Wildlife Species Sighting reporting system to help biologists track the spread of the disease. When reporting, select Bird – Diseased or Dead. 

Submit a Diseased/Dead Bird Report

You can also include photographs or videos with your report, as well as latitude and longitude coordinates to help wildlife biologists quickly verify the sighting. Remember to always view wildlife from a respectful distance for your safety as well as the safety of the animal. 

To dispose of dead birds, place in a plastic bag, seal, and discard with household trash or alternatively bury them deeply.