Avian Influenza Detected in Seabird at Point Reyes National Seashore

POINT REYES STATION, Calif. - Biologists at Point Reyes National Seashore received results of a presumptive positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dead common murre, a penguin-like seabird, recovered from Kehoe Beach.

The National Park Service reminds visitors that they should never approach or handle wildlife. Keep pets on a leash in areas where pets are allowed and away from sick or dead wildlife to reduce the risk of infection and prevent further stress or injury to the wildlife. If you encounter sick or dead wildlife, maintain a safe distance and please report it to a visitor center, park staff or by phone or email at 415-464-5100, or [email protected].

Park biologists began observing an increased number of dead common murres along park beaches on February 25. The event was later identified as part of a broader regional seabird mortality event affecting beaches throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

On March 10, the U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center informed park staff that preliminary testing showed a presumptive positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in one of three dead birds collected.

Park staff are coordinating closely with wildlife health experts and partner organizations, including The Marine Mammal Center, the Beach Watch program run by Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries in partnership with the Greater Farallones Association, and University of California, Davis, to monitor wildlife health and assess conditions in the park.

Recent reports of avian influenza affecting marine mammals at Año Nuevo State Park increased regional interest in the disease. Biologists at Point Reyes continue to monitor the park's northern elephant seal colony closely. At this time, no signs of illness have been observed among elephant seals at Point Reyes.

The park will continue coordinating with partner agencies and wildlife health experts to monitor conditions and will provide updates as additional information becomes available.

About the National Park Service Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.