Trenton, N.J. — Concerns are rising among New Jersey residents after reports of numerous dead geese have surfaced in various locations across the state. State wildlife and health officials, however, assure the public that the risk of transmission to humans remains minimal.
Between Saturday and Monday, more than 1,100 wild birds were reported as dead or sick to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), primarily consisting of Canada geese, along with some brant geese spotted along the coastline. While testing is still underway, wildlife pathologist Patrick Connelly expressed strong suspicion that the avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is to blame for this unusual mortality rate.
The influx of migratory waterfowl this season, coupled with a harsh cold snap, has created an environment conducive to rapid disease spread, according to Connelly. He noted that the frigid temperatures have led birds to cluster around limited sources of open water, thereby increasing contact rates among flocks.
Earlier this month, tests identified brant geese as negative for bird flu, suggesting their deaths may be linked to the cold weather and subsequent starvation rather than viral infection. Recent reports of deceased Canada geese have come from various areas, including Holmdel, Manalapan, and Matawan in Monmouth County, as well as towns like Basking Ridge and Hainesport.
While the scale of these bird deaths may appear alarming, Connelly reassured the public that such incidents are not uncommon among wild bird populations, particularly during winter months. This season tends to see larger concentrations of migratory birds, and as colder temperatures prevail, the bird flu virus becomes more stable, enhancing its capacity for transmission.
Bird flu can affect both domestic and wild bird populations, resulting in significant impacts since its outbreak in the U.S. in 2022. Though relatively rare, mammals can also contract the virus through consumption of infected birds or by exposure to contaminated environments. Reports indicate that over 200 mammals, including various species from foxes to cows, have tested positive for the disease.
Though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledges that bird flu can infect humans, they emphasize that such occurrences are extremely rare. In fact, since February 2024, only 71 human cases have been reported, with two ensuing fatalities. The CDC is closely monitoring the situation while maintaining that the current risk to public health is low.
In light of these developments, state officials are asking residents to report any sightings of sick or dead birds, particularly in groups of five or more, through a newly established disease reporting form. To assist in tracking these incidents, residents are encouraged to provide photographs.
As part of protocol, the state is also coordinating with local municipalities to facilitate the removal of decomposed birds wherever feasible. For individual residents who encounter dead birds on their properties, the Division of Fish and Wildlife advises the use of personal protective equipment—including gloves and masks—while providing guidelines for safe disposal methods to prevent any potential exposure.
Maintaining awareness and caution remains essential as the state navigates through this concerning avian health crisis.