LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – On Tuesday, the Town of Ransom Canyon issued a public safety notice urging residents to use caution following confirmed detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu.
Officials say the situation is being closely monitored, and that public awareness and adherence to safety guidance are essential to protecting both human and animal health.
Since December 16th, the Town has sent out notifications to residents regarding bird flu and has shared precautionary information through email and social media.
For the past 90 days, Town staff have collected around 350–400 geese as part of ongoing response efforts.
Town officials say following the winter storm last week, a large amount of geese became frozen in the lake.
The lake has since thawed, and the geese are now being discovered along the lake perimeter, including areas adjacent to residential backyards.
The Town of Ransom Canyon is actively coordinating response efforts with the City of Lubbock Public Health Department, and staff are working as quickly and safely as possible to remove the affected wildlife.
This issue is not limited to Lubbock County and is impacting neighboring communities throughout West Texas. All agencies involved are making every effort to address the situation in accordance with State of Texas guidelines.
Do Not Handle Sick or Dead Birds
Residents are strongly advised not to touch, move, or handle any birds that appear sick, injured, or found dead.
If you observe a sick or dead bird suspected to be affected by HPAI, contact the Ransom Canyon Police Department immediately.
Important Guidance from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
· Migratory Birds: The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will test migratory birds showing clinical signs only if there has been human exposure. Residents may contact their local TPWD biologist or game warden for assistance.
· Mammals: Sick or deceased mammals should be submitted for rabies testing, with a note stating: “neurological – suspect HPAI.”
· Backyard Poultry & Domestic Ducks: The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) must be notified of all poultry or duck exposures, including:
o Dead birds in yards or coops
o Sudden die-offs in flocks
· Pets: Dogs or cats that have been exposed to a sick or dead bird should be evaluated by a veterinarian promptly.
· People: Individuals who believe they may have been exposed should follow up with their physician and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
Required Protective Equipment
Anyone handling animals suspected of having HPAI must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). For public safety, residents are asked to leave all handling and removal to trained professionals.
Recognizing Clinical Signs of HPAI
HPAI symptoms may appear in birds and mammals. Residents should report wildlife or domestic animals exhibiting any of the following signs:
· Birds falling from the sky
· Inability to lift the head (birds in water may drown)
· Standing still or not reacting when approached
· Apparent blindness
· Facial twitching or seizure-like movements
· Head tilt (torticollis)
· Ataxia (loss of coordination)
· Grand mal seizures
· Ocular or nasal discharge
· Diarrhea or abnormal stool
· Lethargy
· Difficulty breathing or use of abdominal muscles to breathe
If you observe any of these symptoms, do not approach the animal.
Reporting Concerns
For assistance, questions, or to report sick or deceased animals, please contact the Ransom Canyon Police Department at (806) 810-2067 for issues in Ransom Canyon city limits
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