Information for Hunters
Last updated on March 7, 2022Hunters 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
Learn how to report sick or dead animals
Some wild animal diseases can create risk to both humans and animal populations. The following are of concern in B.C. right now. Read more about:
Read the booklet Diseases You Can Get From Wildlife (PDF, 8.6MB)
Learn about Safe Game Meat Handling (PDF, 149 KB)
Contact information
Call RAPP at 1 877 952-7277 for injured or distressed wildlife or wildlife interactions where public safety may be at risk.
For all wildlife health inquiries or reports, contact BC Wildlife Health.