At least 60 geese have been found dead on the frozen sections of the Missouri River in Great Falls and we no know the answer on how they died.  Montana Fish Wildlife and parks says the birds died from the avian flu, which has already killed over 80,000 birds in Montana and over 56-million nationwide.

In an interview with KRTV, FWP communications manager David Hagengruber says the birds probably came down with the avian flu during the frigid days about three weeks ago.  He says the birds will tend to huddle together during the cold days and that's how the flu probably spread.

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picture from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
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Dead goose

goose

For now, the birds will not be removed from the river because the ice is too thin and dangerous to be on.  Hagengruber tells KRTV they are not concerned with the dead geese contaminating the water adding the avian flu has not  been known to be contracted through water.

GOOSE
Picture from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
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goose

GOOSE

There is a word of warning today for you pets.  State officials say keep your dogs away from the dead geese.  The avian flu can be transferred to your dogs.  They also say people should stay away as well.

Back in April and May of last year there was a breakout of the avian flu in commercial poultry and migratory birds in Cascade County.  All the birds in these cases were disposed of.

If you see a dead bird and you have to remove it state officials say you should wear protective clothing, protective footwear and gloves.  If the avian flu gets into a flock you have, you should immediately isolate the sick animals and contact a vet or the Montana Department Livestock.

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