Avian flu confirmed in two geese at Cameron Park Lake, officials say
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife have confirmed two cases of avian flu in infected Canada geese at Cameron Park Lake in El Dorado County, agency officials said.
State fish and wildlife scientists recently tested two goose carcasses recovered at the lake finding the virus in both, said spokesperson Peter Tira. The cases so far are contained to El Dorado County, with no reports in Sacramento or Yolo counties, Tira said.
Avian flu cases have become a common occurrence in the fall and winter months since cases were first detected in Northern California several years ago, Tira said.
“That’s when we see cases increase. We’ve been living with avian flu since 2022. It’s on a pretty predictable schedule,” Tira said. “It’s our third season so we’ve grown accustomed to it.”
He said CDFW anticipates more cases as more geese migrate south to California.
“We expect to see more. These are social birds,” Tira said, adding that the waterways where the birds settle down for the winter are fertile ground for the spreading of disease. The virus and cases dissipate once the weather turns warmer in the spring.
The Cameron Park Community Services District said it posted warning signs around the manmade lake on Oct. 23 advising the public to avoid contact with water and wildlife.
Officials urge residents to stay out of the water and avoid sick or dead birds. Residents are asked not to touch wildlife and to report animal deaths to district staff at 530-677-2231 or animal services.
While the risk to humans remains low, avian influenza can spread through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces, officials said.
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