As bird flu cases widen across the United States, authorities in New Jersey are on alert.
In February parks in Monmouth County were closed due to the discovery of dozens of dead geese. Bird flu was the suspected cause.
Flocks of snow geese in New Jersey have also been affected, and by mid-February eight dead bald eagles had been discovered. It is suspected they died from ingesting birds infected with bird flu.
Bird flu is highly contagious and has leapt from birds to other animal populations, including dairy cows. California has been particularly affected. Foxes, bears, seals, and stray or domestic animals such as cats and dogs also may contract this virus.
New Jersey is an important stopover for migratory birds, so it is at high risk for spread of the virus. Chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese are at high risk because they congregate in large numbers.
The virus has also crossed to humans, having been confirmed as the cause of at least one human death (Louisiana).
Individuals who interact with potentially infected populations of animals are advised to wear protective clothing or avoid contact.
Songbirds carry a low risk of transmission, so it is considered safe to fill birdfeeders during the winter. Feeders should be cleaned regularly, however.
Click here for helpful Centers for Disease Control information on bird flu: https://shorturl.at/3UMf