Michigan’s Waterfowl Hit With Bird Flu: What You Need to Know

Well, it looks like Michigan's Canadian geese are literally calling it quits. Bird flu (a.k.a. highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI if you like acronyms) is making its way through the state's wild bird population. Sadly for hunters in Michigan, it's working its way into the waterfowl population.

RELATED: Bird Flu and Your Michigan Pets: What You Need to Know

If you've noticed more than a few feathered friends floating in local lakes and rivers, you're not imagining things. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is investigating die-offs in multiple counties, and unfortunately, it's probably bird flu.

Bird Flu's Impact on Michigan's Waterfowl Hunters

If you are hoping for a peaceful, drama-free goose season in Michigan, think again. While Michigan's duck and goose populations aren't expected to take a catastrophic hit, you might notice fewer birds in 2025.

Hunting is still on, but the DNR is advising extra precautions—like, maybe not handling sick-looking or dead birds.

How Can You Protect Your Family and Pets?

Fun fact: Bird flu can spread to pets and humans, which means your hunting dog is at risk. Keep kids and your furry friends away from dead or sick birds. Please do not pick up random dead birds. If you feel the need to, put on protective gloves, grab a bag, and get ready to disinfect. Here's a look at where potentially infected birds were found during the DNR's most recent disease surveillance:

• Fennville Farm Unit (Allegan State Game Area)
  • 77 dead Canada geese and one dead mallard
• Shiawassee River near Owosso
  • 80 plus dead Canada geese
• Williamston Lakes in Ingham County
  • 25 dead Canada geese
• Grand River in Grand Ledge
  • 20 dead birds
• Washtenaw County
  • About 100 dead birds reported

See Something? Say Something!

If you stumble upon a mass bird graveyard (six or more dead birds in the same area), report it to the DNR's EyesInTheField program. And if you have to get rid of the bird, double-bag it and toss it in the trash.

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Michigan's waterfowl may be struggling, but with some commonsense conservation, we can keep bird flu from becoming a bigger mess.