The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is urging caution as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to circulate among wild birds across the state during seasonal migration and winter congregation.

HPAI, a strain of avian influenza caused by influenza type A viruses, has been detected in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The virus spreads easily among wild and domestic birds, both directly and through environmental contamination. While low pathogenic strains (LPAI) typically cause minor illness, highly pathogenic strains spread rapidly and carry a high mortality rate in birds.

Migratory waterfowl and other waterbirds serve as natural reservoirs for the disease. In addition to birds, several mammal species—including domestic cats, skunks, foxes, raccoons, bobcats, mountain lions, and black bears—are also susceptible.

TPWD advises wildlife rehabilitators to exercise caution when admitting animals showing clinical signs consistent with HPAI, and to quarantine them to prevent exposure to other animals. Backyard poultry may also be at risk through contact with wild birds. Suspected cases should be reported to TPWD within 24 hours.

Clinical signs of HPAI can include neurological issues such as incoordination, trembling, seizures, and lethargy, as well as respiratory symptoms like coughing and sneezing. Sudden death may also occur, though infected birds do not always show outward symptoms. Transmission in mammals primarily occurs through consumption of infected carcasses or contaminated equipment.

The risk of transmission to humans remains low, but TPWD encourages the public to take basic precautions when contact with wild animals cannot be avoided. Individuals who develop symptoms after exposure to an HPAI-positive animal should contact a healthcare provider and report the exposure.

Preventive measures include limiting unnecessary contact with wild birds, cleaning feeders and water sources regularly with a bleach solution, changing birdbath water frequently, and discouraging waterfowl from congregating near food or backyard flocks. Hunters are advised to wear gloves when processing game, properly dispose of carcasses, disinfect tools, and cook meat thoroughly.

For more information, visit the following resources:

• United States Department of Agriculture- Avian Influenza 
• Texas Animal Health Commission- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza 
• Center for Disease Control (CDC)
• Hunters- Protect your Poultry and Pet Birds
• Manage Wildlife to Prevent Avian Influenza
• Avian influenza- American Veterinary Medical Association