News Release

Bird Flu Present in the Park Again 2023

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News Release Date: March 23, 2023
Contact: Olivia Magni, 907-747-0145

SITKA, ALASKA – On March 12, 2023 the Alaska Raptor Center collected an adult Bald Eagle exhibiting signs of illness from Sitka National Historical Park. The eagle displayed head jerks, neck twist, and was grounded. These are all symptoms of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Test results confirmed that the eagle had HPAI. 

Future visitors to the park, and the greater area around Sitka, may encounter more sick or dead birds due to HPAI. Visitors should not approach or touch any bird that appears to be sick. The virus is easily transmissible and can be passed by contaminated individuals and surfaces like clothes and boots. Rarely, HPAI can transmit to humans. HPAI easily transmits to dogs, so take extra care to prevent them from interacting with any sick or dead birds.

To try and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible virus, park staff are working with partners to collect, test, and properly dispose of as many dead birds as possible. The bird species most likely to be affected in this area is the bald eagle. If a sick or deceased bird is found in the park, please contact Olivia Magni at 907-747-0145.

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