Actions Requested
Do not approach or handle sick or dead wildlife. Report sick or dead wild animals to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) using their online reporting form. Sick or dead domestic birds can be reported to the Washington State Department of Agriculture's (WSDA) Sick Bird Hotline at 1-800-606-3056.
Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when in close contact (within 6 feet) with sick or dead wild or domestic animals or contaminated environments—including enclosed spaces where such animals are present. Recommended PPE:
- NIOSH-approves respirator (e.g. N95)
- Disposable gloves
- Hair cover
- Properly fitted, unvented or indirectly vented, safety goggles
- Fluid-resistant coveralls
- Rubber boots or boot covers
For cleaning bird feces outdoors, wear gloves and disinfect with 1:10 bleach solution or a benzalkonium chloride-based cleaner (e.g., Lysol). Soak area for 5–10 minutes, wipe with disposable cloths, and discard in a sealed trash can. Wash hands thoroughly.
Avoid consuming or feeding pets raw or undercooked food, including unpasteurized milk, raw cheeses, or raw pet food. Cook wild game and other animal products thoroughly.
Hunters should wear PPE when handling, field dressing, or processing wild game. Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids, and do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling carcasses. Clean tools and surfaces with disinfectant. Wash hands thoroughly after handling animals.
