Date: 12/10/25 3:13 pm From: Christine Alexander <christine.e.alexander...> Subject: [cobirds] Fwd: CPW reminds public of seasonal increase in highly pathogenic avian influenza cases
FYI
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Colorado Parks and Wildlife <dnr_cpw_getsocial...>
Date: Wed, Dec 10, 2025 at 12:30
Subject: CPW reminds public of seasonal increase in highly pathogenic avian
influenza cases
To: <christine.e.alexander...>
*12/10/25*
[image: State of Colorado and Colorado Parks and Wildlife combined logo]
*Kara Van Hoose Northeast Region Public Information Officer*
303-829-7143 / <kara.vanhoose...>
*Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds public of seasonal increase in highly
pathogenic avian influenza cases*
Canada snow geese in Colorado
December 10, 2025
*Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds public of seasonal increase in highly
pathogenic avian influenza cases*
DENVER — As migrating bird populations begin to travel through Colorado
during late fall and winter, Colorado Parks and Wildlife expects an
increase in wild birds infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza
(HPAI) and reminds residents to avoid sick wildlife. Waterfowl and
shorebirds are particularly susceptible to HPAI transmission as they are
known to gather in large numbers around bodies of water, which encourages
the spread of the virus.
Birds infected with HPAI may appear to be moving slowly, swimming in
circles, unable to fly, have a lack of coordination, swollen head, head
tilting or found deceased. CPW will test sick or dead birds for the
presence of HPAI when appropriate or when large die-offs are found in a new
location. The public is encouraged to contact CPW
<https://state.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5144ed31c5f2ba642e0393361&id=537796532d&e=02829f536b> if three or more birds exhibit HPAI symptoms or are found dead in the same
localized area.
"This strain of HPAI has the potential to cause large-scale die-offs in
wild bird populations as we progress into winter,” said CPW State Wildlife
Veterinarian Dr. Peach Van Wick. “However, more commonly in Colorado, we
receive reports of small scale mortality events. Since the beginning of
fall, CPW has confirmed the diagnosis of HPAI in fewer than 20 birds, one
black bear and one bobcat, though this is likely an underestimation of the
number of affected animals on the landscape."
Wild mammals have tested positive for HPAI in Colorado and can show similar
signs like walking in circles, lack of coordination or appearing lethargic.
These neurological symptoms are also consistent with rabies, which poses a
significant public health risk. The public is urged to never approach a
mammal acting abnormally and contact CPW. Domestic animals, such as cats
and dogs, can be infected with HPAI. Pet owners should prevent pets from
consuming or interacting with sick or dead wildlife. If pet owners suspect
an exposure to avian influenza, please contact a veterinarian.
Although extremely rare, humans may be infected with HPAI. To avoid
exposure to the virus, never handle sick or dead wild birds, and do not
approach wildlife. CPW encourages waterfowl hunters to wear proper
protection while handling or processing wild game, disinfect equipment
thoroughly, keep wild carcasses away from domestic poultry and pets, and
cook game to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
“CPW does not recommend handling sick or dead wildlife. If necessary, wear
disposable gloves, protective clothing, eye protection, a fitted face mask
and double bag the carcass,” said Dr. Van Wick. “Contact CPW as soon as
possible for further instruction.”
CPW is an enterprise agency, relying primarily on license sales, state
parks fees and registration fees to support its operations, including:
43 state parks and more than 350 wildlife areas covering approximately
900,000 acres, management of fishing and hunting, wildlife watching,
camping, motorized and non-motorized trails, boating and outdoor education.
CPW's work contributes approximately $6 billion in total economic impact
annually throughout Colorado.
<https://state.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5144ed31c5f2ba642e0393361&id=cd1a171caf&e=02829f536b>
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