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Manitoba Bird Flu Outbreak: Hundreds of Geese Dead
12 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Hundreds of bird carcasses, mostly Canadian geese, found near water.
- Scientists attribute the unprecedented die-off to avian influenza.
- Mild weather and late migration may have contributed to the outbreak.
Southern Manitoba is currently experiencing an alarming avian influenza outbreak, with over 500 bird carcasses, predominantly Canadian geese, recovered near water sources within the last month. Biologists note this scale of bird deaths is unprecedented for the province, with significant clusters observed near the Red River and in Niverville.
Laboratory tests have confirmed avian influenza, specifically the H5 subtype, as the cause of death for many birds in Niverville. Experts suggest that a combination of factors, including unusually mild weather allowing late bird migrations and a scarcity of food sources, may have exacerbated the spread and impact of the virus.
While the risk to the general public remains low, researchers emphasize the importance of avoiding contact with dead birds. The situation serves as a reminder to monitor wildlife health, with scientists continuing to investigate the precise strain and potential mutations of the avian flu virus circulating in the region.
