(HARTFORD, CT) – As the annual fall migration of wild birds is underway, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) is urging all poultry owners—both backyard and commercial—to remain vigilant and implement strong biosecurity practices to protect their flocks and public health.
“Fall migration brings an increased risk of exposure to avian influenza, particularly from wild waterfowl that can carry the virus without showing symptoms,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Thamus Morgan, DVM, MPH, DACVPM. “Whether you have a few hens in your backyard or manage a large commercial operation, biosecurity is your first line of defense.”
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, or bird flu, continues to pose a serious threat to domestic poultry. The virus is highly contagious and often fatal to birds. In recent years, HPAI outbreaks have caused significant losses across North America, impacting food supply chains and local economies. Connecticut last confirmed H5N1 in a backyard flock in January 2025.
Key Biosecurity Reminders for Fall:
- Prevent contact with wild birds: Keep flocks indoors or under covered runs to avoid exposure to migratory birds.
- Limit visitors: Restrict access to poultry areas and require clean clothing and footwear for anyone entering.
- Clean and disinfect: Regularly sanitize coops, tools, and equipment.
- Monitor flock health: Report any signs of illness immediately.
- Secure feed and water: Keep them covered and inaccessible to wild birds and rodents.
“It’s important that all poultry owners in Connecticut know that they play an important role in protecting our state’s flocks,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “We encourage everyone to continue being proactive, especially through the end of fall migration season.”
Regulatory Requirements
All live poultry transported into Connecticut must be accompanied by:
- An official health certificate from the state of origin
- A permit issued by the Commissioner of Agriculture
- Certification that chicks or hatching eggs are from a pullorum-free flock
Resources for Poultry Owners
CT DoAg encourages flock owners to visit the U.S Department of Agriculture’s (USDA)Defend the Flock Resource Center, which offers free tools, checklists, and videos to help implement effective biosecurity practices.
Report Sick Birds
Bird owners and the public are reminded that sick or dead birds (wild and domestic) should not be picked up, brought home, or taken to a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator if displaying signs of H5N1 infection.
Signs of H5N1 infection in poultry include sudden increase in bird deaths, sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, watery or green diarrhea, lack of energy, poor appetite, drop in egg production, swelling around the eyes, neck, and head, and purple discoloration of wattles, combs, and legs.
Backyard and commercial flock owners are encouraged to report anything unusual, especially sick or dead birds, to CT DoAg at 860-713-2505, ctstate.vet@ct.gov, or the USDA at 866-536-7593.
If you see several dead wild birds (>5) in one location or notice several dead wild birds in the same area over the course of several days, we encourage you to report sightings to the Wild Bird Mortality Database or by calling the DEEP Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011.
For more information on Avian Influenza reference our fact sheet.
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) mission is to foster a healthy economic, environmental, and social climate for agriculture by developing, promoting, and regulating agricultural businesses; protecting agricultural and aquacultural resources; enforcing laws pertaining to domestic animals; and promoting an understanding among the state's citizens of the diversity of Connecticut agriculture, its cultural heritage, and its contribution to the state's economy. For more information, visit www.CTGrown.gov.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Rebecca Eddy, Rebecca.Eddy@ct.gov
860-573-0323
