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Jim Britt is the director of communications at the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
The recent detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI, "bird flu") in multiple wild birds across York and Cumberland counties reminds us that this contagious virus remains in our environment. While no cases have been reported in Maine's domestic flocks since March 2024, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF), Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW), and the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) are urging residents to take precautions to protect both wild and domestic birds.
HPAI is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily among birds through direct contact with infected poultry, wild birds, contaminated equipment, and even on the clothing and shoes of caretakers. It can cause serious illness or death in birds, leading to decreased appetite, reduced egg production, and other health concerns. Although the human health risk remains low, preventing the spread of HPAI is crucial to safeguarding Maine's poultry industry and wildlife.
In recent weeks, MDIFW has confirmed HPAI in four Canada geese, two red-tailed hawks, and one great-horned owl. These birds were collected in Kennebunk, Kittery, Ogunquit, South Berwick, South Portland, and York. Additionally, HPAI has been detected in domesticated poultry in four New England states, reinforcing the need for Maine poultry owners to remain vigilant. Wild water birds, such as ducks and geese, are common carriers of the virus, which can then spread rapidly to domestic flocks.
As migratory birds pass through the region, the DACF urges all poultry owners -- whether managing backyard flocks or large-scale farms -- to strengthen their biosecurity measures. Reducing exposure is key: keeping birds in enclosed outdoor spaces or indoors helps prevent contact with wild birds. Strict hygiene practices are essential, such as washing hands before and after handling birds, wearing clean clothing, and sanitizing boots and equipment. Owners should also avoid sharing equipment unless thoroughly disinfected, provide only clean municipal or well water, and secure feed storage to keep out wild birds and rodents. Limiting farm visitors and staying away from areas where birds congregate further reduces risk. Most importantly, monitoring flock health and promptly reporting unusual illnesses can help prevent disease outbreaks and protect Maine's poultry industry.
When it comes to protecting our domesticated bird populations, early detection of illness is critical. Bird owners should be vigilant for key warning signs of disease, including sudden death without prior symptoms, lethargy, loss of appetite, and a noticeable drop in egg production or the appearance of misshapen eggs. Physical symptoms such as swelling or discoloration of the head, comb, wattles, or legs can also signal trouble. Respiratory distress -- marked by nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing -- along with diarrhea or neurological issues like lack of coordination should not be ignored. Identifying these symptoms early can help prevent the spread of disease and protect both backyard flocks and commercial poultry operations.
Maine wildlife officials are closely monitoring HPAI cases to understand better and contain the spread of the virus. If you encounter sick or dead birds, prompt reporting is crucial. For wild birds, contact the MDIFW at 207-287-8000 or 800-452-4664 after hours, or report findings online using the MDIFW wildlife disease reporting form -- especially if you notice clusters of three or more dead birds in the same area. The Maine CDC reminds everyone to avoid sources of exposure to HPAI and not attempt to handle sick or dead wild birds. For domesticated poultry, owners should immediately report sick or deceased birds to the U.S. Department of Agriculture at 1-866-536-7593.
If handling or removing a dead bird is necessary, take precautions by wearing gloves and a mask, disposing of the bird properly -- either by burial or in a sealed trash bag -- and washing hands thoroughly with soap afterward. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
While HPAI poses a low risk to the public, those with close, prolonged, or unprotected exposure to infected birds or contaminated environments face higher risks. Anyone exposed to infected birds should monitor symptoms, such as respiratory issues, fever, or conjunctivitis, for up to 10 days. Taking these precautions can help minimize risk and prevent the spread of avian disease.
Staying informed is the most important step in preventing the spread of avian influenza. For the latest updates on HPAI in Maine, resources, and frequently asked questions, visit maine.gov/dacf, maine.gov/ifw, and maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc.
By staying vigilant and following biosecurity guidelines, we can work together to safeguard Maine's poultry industry and protect our state's wildlife from the ongoing threat of avian influenza.