RICHMOND, Va. (WDBJ/DWR Release) - The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) says it has recently received reports of groups of dead black vultures across the state, including several counties in Southwest Virginia.

Preliminary testing indicates the likely cause is H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), according to DWR. Although disease activity has been centered in black vultures, with migration season beginning, it is likely there will be mortalities in other bird species.

DWR asks that if you observe any of the following, call the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 1-855-571-9003 or email wildlifehealth@dwr.virginia.gov .

Five or more dead vultures, waterfowl, shorebirds, or seabirds in the same area within five days

Sick or dead eagles, hawks, owls, or

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