The City of Watertown sent out the following announcement:
Watertown has seen an increase in dead bird sightings. While the state has not yet confirmed the presence of bird flu in Watertown, they have said that bird flu is widespread in Massachusetts and is likely present even in communities where there has not been a confirmed positive.
To keep our community safe and healthy, please follow these precautions:
Keep Your Distance: Avoid interacting with or approaching wild birds, including feeding them. Do not touch any sick or dead birds or other animals.
Avoid Contaminated Areas: Steer clear of surfaces that may be contaminated with bird saliva, mucus, or feces.
Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after any potential contact with birds.
Protect Your Pets: Dogs and other pets should always be leashed and kept away from wildlife. Cats are susceptible to bird flu and may die from an infection, so keep your cats indoors to prevent exposure to infected wildlife.
For Owners of Domestic Poultry or Birds: Prevent shared food or water sources between your birds and wild birds. Report sick or dead poultry or other domestic birds by calling MDAR’s Division of Animal Health at (617) 626-1795 or through mass.gov/reportpoultry
Report Sightings: Contact the Watertown Health Department at 617-972-6446 to report observations of sick or deceased birds. If you are walking on the Charles River path and find deceased birds, you can contact DCR at their main office line at 617-626-1250 or by email at mass.parks@mass.gov
Residents can also call the Watertown Health Department at 617-972-6446 with any concerns related to bird flu.