RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is asking the public to report specific instances involving dead birds amid an increase in suspected cases of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu.

The DWR recently received reports of groups of dead black vultures in Virginia, according to a release shared on Monday, and officials believe the deaths are likely linked to bird flu.

DWR data shows since July 2025, there have been 12 suspected bird flu cases , including one in Hampton Roads — a report made in August involving vultures in Franklin.

As officials continue to track cases, they’re asking the public to make a report if they see the following:

Five or more dead vultures, waterfowl, shorebirds, or seabirds in the same area wi

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