Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I report a dead bird?
West Nile virus infects many kinds wild birds. On the mainland birds in the crow family (Corvids), crows, jays, ravens, and magpies, tend to become sick and die. In Hawaii, our only member of the crow family is the Hawaiian Crow, the `Alala. It is highly likely that West Nile virus would be deadly to them. Other Native Hawaiian birds would be very susceptible to West Nile virus and most likely die, too. Many of Hawaii's small, non-native birds like house sparrows, house finches, java sparrows, Japanese White Eyed (Mejiro), cardinals and bulbuls also experience varying degrees of mortality when infected with West Nile virus.
It has been shown that increasing numbers of dead birds may be an indication of West Nile virus in your community. Currently, we have no West Nile virus in Hawaii. You can help us keep Hawaii West Nile virus free by reporting dead birds to the Hawaii Department of Health. Call (toll free) 211 to report dead birds. The 211 number works from most phones, but if it does not work from your phone call 877-275-6569 or 808- ASK 2000. You will be advised on whether the bird should be submitted for testing. Although it is important for public health officials to track dead bird sightings, most dead birds will not be collected or tested.
West Nile virus infects many kinds wild birds. On the mainland birds in the crow family (Corvids), crows, jays, ravens, and magpies, tend to become sick and die. In Hawaii, our only member of the crow family is the Hawaiian Crow, the `Alala. It is highly likely that West Nile virus would be deadly to them. Other Native Hawaiian birds would be very susceptible to West Nile virus and most likely die, too. Many of Hawaii's small, non-native birds like house sparrows, house finches, java sparrows, Japanese White Eyed (Mejiro), cardinals and bulbuls also experience varying degrees of mortality when infected with West Nile virus.
NEW >>>> ON-LINE DEAD BIRD REPORTING >>>> CLICK HERE
You can now report dead birds easily on-line. Go to www.gotdeadbird.org and follow the links to on-line reporting. If the bird you reported is appropriate for testing you will be called by our technical agents to make arrangements for pick up of the bird.
How do I pick up a dead bird for submission or disposal?
While there is no evidence that you can get West Nile virus from handling dead birds, avoid bare-handed contact. To collect the bird for submission or disposal:
- Wear protective eye ware such as sunglasses
- Use a rubber gloves, inverted double bag method, or a shovel to pick up the carcass.
- Seal it in double plastic bags and take it to a dead bird collection site near you, or for disposal simply place in a garbage can.
See also, Reporting dead birds, for more information.
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