An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Wildlife Health Alert
(June 13, 2025): The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife's Wildlife Health Program (WHP) is currently investigating reports of illness affecting blue jays, American robins, and European starlings. Affected birds have been observed with crusty and/or swollen eyes.
At this time, the cause of the illness is unknown. WHP is asking for the public's help in reporting sick or recently deceased birds that match this description. We are actively collecting freshly dead birds (died within the last 24 hours) of these species for testing. Prompt collection is critical, especially in hot weather, as carcasses decompose quickly and become unsuitable for evaluation.
Sick or recently deceased birds can be reported via the sick or dead bird reporting form.
Important: If handling a carcass is necessary, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds afterward. If you must remove dead birds, it is recommended that you place the carcass in a sealable plastic bag and dispose of it in a secure, outdoor trash container.