The bird carcasses collected from the Bighorn River last week have tested NEGATIVE for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). FWP’s wildlife health lab will conduct additional diagnostic tests to help determine the cause of the large mortality event. These tests can take longer than testing for HPAI, but FWP will notify the public when results are available.
Though the birds were not positive for HPAI, FWP still suggests both people and pets avoid contact with the bird carcasses.
If you find five or more sick or dead wild birds in one location, call the Billings FWP office at 406-247-2940 or the Wildlife Health Program in Bozeman at 406-577-7880.
