By RYAN SKAITH
State wildlife officials confirmed an outbreak of avian influenza among Canada geese at two southwest Iowa lakes after dozens of birds were found dead earlier this month.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported the virus at Green Valley Lake and Lake of Three Fires. Wildlife staff began receiving reports of dead geese at Green Valley Lake on Dec. 11 and have since collected an estimated 60 carcasses.
Local officials estimate thousands of geese are currently using Green Valley Lake as a stopover during their fall migration.
DNR state wildlife veterinarian, Dr. Rachel Ruden, says this is the first time we have seen a large number of dead birds in southwest Iowa.
Ruden added that it is currently uncertain how long the outbreak will last.
The DNR is asking the public to report sightings of 20 or more carcasses in a concentrated area to local wildlife staff.
