State wildlife officials have confirmed avian influenza at Lake Tye Park in Monroe, where more than 30 birds were found dead in a matter of days in early November.
“It is disturbing to watch,” Staci Lehman, communications manager at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, told KIRO 7 of the sick birds.
The virus does not pass easily from birds to people, the department says. Still, it recommends these precautions:
Leave sick or dead birds where they are. Don’t try to catch or carry them.
Keep dogs away from carcasses.
Don’t feed ducks and geese. Feeding encourages them to gather, which gives disease more chances to spread.
So far there is no word on taking down bird feeders, which should be cleaned regularly. Wear disposable gloves when you clean them, and wash your hands afterward.