Reporting Dead Birds

The public is encouraged to report dead birds – especially crows, ravens, magpies, jays, hawks, owls and eagles – to Idaho Fish and Game regional offices. People reporting the dead bird, should report the type of bird, if known, and when and where it was found. If the bird has been dead for less than 48-hours, it may be submitted to be tested for the virus.

Fish and Game Regional Offices:

• Upper Snake Region - 208-525-7290
• Salmon Region - 208-756-2271
• Panhandle Region - 208-769-1414
• Clearwater Region - 208-799-5010
• Southwest Region - 208-465-8465
• McCall Subregion - 208-634-8137
• Magic Valley Region - 208-324-4359
• Southeast Region - 208-232-4703

Submitting Dead Birds for Testing
Dead birds may be submitted for West Nile virus testing if they are freshly dead – less than 48 hours. The person should pick it up using latex or rubber gloves or a plastic bag without touching the bird. Birds should be placed into a plastic bag and then double bagged. Birds can be submitted fresh, refrigerated, or frozen to Fish and Game. Gloves should be discarded in the trash after use.

Disposing of Dead Birds
If West Nile virus is suspected, and dead birds are not going to be submitted for testing, a person should pick them up using latex or rubber gloves or a plastic bag without touching the birds. Place the dead birds in a second plastic bag and dispose of them in the trash.