Birds Carry West Nile Virus
The West Nile virus is carried long distances by infected birds and then spread locally by mosquitoes that bite infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then bite and pass the virus to humans and animals, primarily birds and horses.
West Nile virus has been detected in dead birds of at least 138 species. Although birds, particularly crows and jays, infected with West Nile virus can die or become ill, most infected birds do survive.
Placer County is monitoring birds as well as trapping mosquitoes in an effort to determine when West Nile Virus becomes a problem in this area. A flock of sentinel chickens is being raised and tested for West Nile Virus.
The State of California is monitoring, testing and collecting information on dead birds. Report a Dead Bird Birds common to Placer County that may carry West Nile Virus include Crows, Blackbirds, Bluejays, Doves, Pigeons and many more. Exotic and captive species known to be susceptible to West Nile Virus include Cockatiels, European Goldfinches, Lorikeets and Macaws. Click below for a complete list of bird species known to be susceptible.