Information for Hunters

Hunters are an invaluable resource to wildlife managers. They are eyes and ears on the land and help to maintain healthy wildlife populations by sharing their observations and submitting samples for disease surveillance.

Waterfowl Hunters

Hunters targeting waterfowl should be aware of Avian Influenza Virus (AIV) that occurs naturally in wild birds. Strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus have been found in waterfowl in North America including one case in B.C. No cases of human infections with AIV have been reported in Canada to date.

AIV does not pose a food safety risk when wild birds are properly handled and cooked.

• Find out more about AIV and safe handling of wild birds