LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - Michigan Department of Natural Resources officials are urging waterfowl hunters to take extra precautions this season to protect themselves and their domestic animals from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu.

This fall, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported a rising number of HPAI outbreaks in both commercial and backyard poultry flocks.

According to the DNR, more detections have been confirmed in 2025 than at the same point in 2024.

So far, 130 wild birds in Michigan have tested positive for the virus, with the highest numbers found in Canada geese, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks.

Hunters traveling outside Michigan are also encouraged to follow all recommended health and safety guidelines,

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