Dead crows, blue jays or robins may be a sign that West Nile virus is circulating among the birds and mosquitoes in your community. If you would like to report a dead bird, call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) Public Health Information Line at 866-MASS-WNV (866-627-7968).

While most dead birds will not be collected and tested for West Nile virus, keeping track of their locations plays an important role in directing further bird, mosquito and human surveillance activities. The information gathered from these surveillance activities may help to identify areas at increased risk for human WNV disease. For more information, read the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Frequently Asked Questions About Dead Birds and West Nile Virus.

Disposing of a Dead Bird

Public Property
To report a dead bird on public property in Cambridge, call Cambridge Animal Control, 349-4376 (days), or Cambridge Department of Public Works, 349-4800 (nights/weekends).

Private Property
A dead bird found on private property in Cambridge should be disposed of by the owner or management. Rubber gloves should be worn when handling bird carcasses. For more information on safe disposal of dead birds, see Frequently Asked Questions About Dead Birds and West Nile Virus.