Collect birds if:

Do not collect birds with:

The CDC advises that there is no danger of contracting WNV from handling intact dead birds.
However, the following procedures are suggested to keep hands clean when collecting a specimen:

1. Use rubber gloves when picking up dead birds. If gloves are not available, insert hand into a plastic bag

2. Place each bird in a bag, tie shut then place inside a second bag and tie shut (more than one individually bagged bird can be placed in the second bag).

3. Place bagged bird in a cool spot (such as in a bucket containing ice).

4. Complete a separate copy of the Reporting and Submission form for each bird.

5. Take the bird to a collection site.

If it is not possible to drop off the bird the same day it is collected, the bird should be frozen and turned in the following day.