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Dead geese in the Jamestown Reservoir have sparked an investigation by state authorities, with warnings of a possible bird flu outbreak.
Numerous reports of sick, injured, or dead geese on the water have alerted the North and Dakota Game and Fish Department, who are now observing the situation. Dead geese have been showing up elsewhere in the state, and those carcasses have been tested by the state veterinarian.
Officials say the cause is likely either the highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, or fowl cholera. This type of outbreak has been common in recent years, with thousands of dead geese found in the past two years in the Fall.
Wildlife officials are still determining the risk posed to poultry and other species in the state.
The Game and Fish Department says they encourage residents to report any sightings of dead birds this winter.
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