How to Handle Wild Birds

Handling wild birds can be risky because of diseases that they may be carrying. Dead and alive wild birds carry risks, so it is important to use caution when handling, caring for or hunting them. Avian influenza is a disease carried by wild birds that has caused deaths in Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa. As of January 2011, there has been no known cases of avian influenza in the United States, but hygienic practices are recommended when dealing with wild birds. Injury can also occur if a wild bird pecks or scratches a person, so caution is required.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy-duty work gloves
• Rubber gloves
• Soap and water
• Alcohol disinfectant wipes

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Instructions

• 1

  Avoid touching any birds that look sick or injured. If you need to for some reason, wear heavy-duty work gloves and protective clothing. Contact the local health department in your area if you find sick or dead wild birds.

• 2

  Wear rubber gloves when cleaning bird feeders and wash hands with soap and water after you are finished. Do not ingest any food or beverages while cleaning the bird feeders.

• 3

  Avoid eating or drinking when cleaning wild birds after hunting. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning wild birds and wash your hands with soap and water after cleaning them.

• 4

  Disinfect all tools used during the hunting and cleaning process with alcohol wipes or soap and water. Store uncooked wild birds in a separate container from cooked foods.

• 5

  Cook wild birds to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that all bacteria is killed before eating.