Montana FWP Cautions Hunters About Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu

Hunting is so big here that people across the country come to Montana to take part in the fun. According to the Missoula Current, 85,228 base hunting licenses and 60,978 deer and elk licenses were issued to nonresidents in 2023.

But as hunters from Montana and outside prepare for waterfowl season starting October 4th, Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks have an important safety message.

Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks Issue Warning For Bird Hunters

Montana FWP shared an important reminder for Montana bird hunters yesterday in a press release.

"Before opening day of waterfowl season on Oct. 4, it’s a good time for hunters to be thinking about highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)," Montana FWP said in the release.

According to Montana FWP, HPAI is extremely infectious and lethal to poultry and other birds.

"While the number of HPAI cases in wild birds tends to decline over the summer, FWP has started to see some mortality of wild birds from this virus again this fall."

This may not sound like something new to a lot of veteran hunters but even Montana FWP is warning veteran hunters: this time, things are different.

"This HPAI outbreak is different from those we’ve experienced in the U.S. in the past," Jennifer Ramsay, wildlife veterinarian for Montana FWP said.

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"This virus has a broader host range, not only affecting birds, but also a variety of mammals and even some humans. The duration of the outbreak is also unusual."

Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Park's Tips For Staying Safe

Thankfully, the risk for infecting humans is incredibly low but there are still some important things to remember when bird hunting this season including wearing gloves when handling working with game, keeping dogs away from sick or dead waterfowl, and of course, washing and cleaning your hands and every surface you interact with.

You can learn more about this important announcement from Montana FWP HERE.