Maryland is expanding collection of dead wild birds as cases of avian influenza, or “bird flu,” are recorded across the nation, including some in Maryland.The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) last week expanded its long-term contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The $30,000 contract expansion will provide more wildlife technicians in the state to dispose of dead wild birds, including waterfowl, raptors, and others that could be carrying bird flu.The expanded contract will provide APHIS staff and services to Maryland for the removal of sick and dead wild birds through September.If you see a sick or dead bird in the wild, do not handle or move it yourself. Instead, report it to APHIS by calling 1-877-463-6497. Those with phone numbers outside of Maryland should call 410-349-8055.DNR has a regular contract with APHIS for $80,000 per year, allowing the state to address about 30,000 calls pertaining to sick, injured, or dead wildlife. APHIS will direct either their staff or state staff – including specially trained staff within DNR’s Wildlife and Heritage Service and Maryland Park Service – to respond to calls.Bird flu has been detected among dead snow geese in Worcester and Dorchester counties, as well as at poultry farms on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.Bird flu is an airborne respiratory virus that spreads quickly among birds. Officials say its presence should e considered endemic throughout wild bird populations in Maryland, particularly among waterfowl and raptors.Although bird flu is considered to pose low risk to human health, people should take precautions to limit the virus’s spread.While hunting wild birds remains safe, people should not handle wild birds that are obviously sick or are found dead. Use disposable gloves when handling game and double-bag offal and feathers. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer, immediately after handling game. Individuals should also use dedicated clothing, boots, and tools for cleaning game, and do not use those same items around poultry or pet birds. After harvesting waterfowl, meat should be cooked to 165 degrees to kill viruses and bacteria.Owners of poultry farms and backyard flock should restrict access to poultry, secure the area with a gate, or both. They should also take precautions to prevent contamination, such as implementing footbaths and foot mats with disinfectant; bootwashing and disinfectant stations; and footwear chang or foot covers.Those owners should also cover and secure feed to prevent access by wild birds, rodents, or other animals; and properly contain carcasses, used litter, and other disease-containing organic matter.Songbirds carry a “very low risk” of getting or spreading avian influenza, so residents should feel free to continue filling birdfeeders, officials said.