Samples taken by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed avian influenza in birds in southern Minnesota, although the peak infection period seems to have passed as waterfowl migrated south.
A recent report centered on the numbers of dead Canada Geese found in Fairmont, Waseca, Owatonna and Albert Lea. The DNR stressed caution around dead birds, as unsafe handling can aid in the diseases spread.
The peak came over the last month or so when waterfowl concentrated in open water on lakes. Geese were the most visible examples, although swans and ducks were prone to it as well.
The DNR is working to assess how substantial the die off was this year. The HPAI strain has been circulating since at least spring 2022, including a lull in 2023-2024 before circulation mainly among wild birds in late 2024 into 2025.