July 7, 2025
Contact: Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office: 916.405.2082 | Cell: 916.416.6337
E-mail: lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
FIRST DEAD BIRDS OF THE SEASON TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS
Elk Grove, Ca.— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District has confirmed that three dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) marking the first positive birds of the season. The birds include two Northern Mockingbirds collected near Antelope and one White-tailed Kite found in Elk Grove. “Finding the first positive birds is always significant because it serves as an early warning sign for West Nile virus activity,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “It confirms the virus is present in our region, helps us identify areas where infected mosquitoes may be found, and provides insight into where human cases could emerge later in the season,” added Goodman. Just a few weeks ago, the first mosquito samples of the season also tested positive in both Sacramento and Yolo counties. While WNV activity has started off slowly this year, the rising temperatures expected in the coming days and weeks could accelerate mosquito development and virus transmission.
The public is encouraged to report dead birds by calling the California Department of Public Health hotline at 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). Some species of birds such as crows, jays and magpies are very susceptible to the virus. Though not all birds that are reported will be picked up and tested, the reports provide valuable information and assist with mosquito surveillance and control efforts that help protect public health.
In response to the detection of WNV activity, the District will increase its mosquito trapping and surveillance in the area to find sources where mosquitoes may be breeding.
Residents may visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net to subscribe to mailing lists to receive email notifications for upcoming mosquito treatments by zip code. To sign up, go to Spray Notifications on the website.
To report mosquito problems, please call 1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
2025 West Nile virus activity update:
Sacramento County: 3 dead birds and 1 mosquito sample have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 2 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile to date
