The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) continues to detect highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds throughout Indiana and has currently detected the H5NI virus in 30 counties. HPAI is also suspected in an additional 32 counties based on reports involving the deaths of raptors, cranes and waterfowl.

Counties where avian influenza has been detected in wild birds are Adams, Allen, Bartholomew, Benton, Boone, Clinton, Decatur, Gibson, Greene, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Henry, Huntington, Jackson, Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Marion, Newton, Pike, Porter, Randolph, Ripley, Shelby, Starke, Tippecanoe, Union, Vanderburgh and Vermillion.

HPAI is a disease caused by an influenza virus which usually spreads among birds. It is common in wild birds, especially waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors. Notably, more than 1,500 Sandhill cranes have been affected by the virus since January, resulting in many Sandhill crane deaths in Greene, Jackson, Jasper, LaPorte, Newton, Starke and Union counties.

If you find sick or dead wild birds, please report them at on.in.gov/sick wildlife.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk for contracting HPAI is low. However, it is possible for humans to contract HPAI. People who have close contact with infected animals or their environments, such as poultry farm workers or wildlife rehabilitators, are at higher risk.

Members of the public should avoid contact with sick waterfowl and other sick wildlife whenever possible. However, if it is necessary to remove a carcass, safely dispose of it by wearing a mask and disposable gloves to double bag any carcasses and place them in a secure trash container. Wash hands immediately after with soap and warm water.

Alternatively, a wildlife control operator can be hired to remove carcasses. DNR does not offer carcass removal services. Indiana’s DNR continues to monitor avian influenza in affected species throughout the state.

 

Body of Logansport man recovered

Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating after a body was recovered from the Eel River in Logansport.

First responders were dispatched to the area near the 200 block of Eel River Avenue. The responders, along with the Cass County coroner, recovered the body of 60-year-old Arthur Campbell. The cause of death was pending autopsy results, and the case remained under investigation.

Forestry internships available

The Community & Urban Forestry program is accepting applications for an intern/seasonal position. This is a great opportunity for a current student or someone looking to gain experience in the urban forestry field. The position is based in our downtown Indianapolis office and involves a combination of field and office work.

Some of the key responsibilities are:

- Helping monitor and inspect tree planting projects

- Assisting with the organizing and execution of our Tree Steward training programs

- Helping develop education/outreach materials

- Supporting the coordination of the Indiana Big Tree Register

You can find the job posting online.

If you have any questions, please contact Jacob Roos, Community & Urban Forestry Director, Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry, 402 W Washington St. W296, Indianapolis, IN 46204; 463-253-8217 (Cell)

317-234-4386 (Office) JRoos@dnr.IN.gov (Email) www.dnr.IN.gov (Website)

‘till next time, 

Jack

Readers can contact the author by writing to this publication or e-mail Jack at jackspaulding1971@outlook.com.

Spaulding’s books, “The Best Of Spaulding Outdoors” and “The Coon Hunter And The Kid,” are available from Amazon.com as a paperback or Kindle download.