Wildlife Conflicts Information Hotline

There are many ordinary causes of wild bird mortality including disease, weather events, predation, trauma from flying into buildings, windows or power lines and legal pest control.  In many instances, dead wild birds may not be routinely collected by authorities for testing. 

According to Indiana State Department of Health guidelines, if you need to dispose of a dead Starling, House sparrow, or Pigeon, do not handle it with your bare hands.  Use gloves or a plastic bag turned inside out over your hand to pick up the bird and dispose of the bird/bag in the trash.  Residents can follow these recommended disposal procedures regardless of the cause of death.

For additional information and guidance on other species of wild birds or to report dead wild birds, call the Wildlife Conflicts Information Hotline at 1.800.893.4116.