The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says a preliminary test result for a dead goose found in Hecksher Park shows it was infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

In January, the Town of Huntington put out a public safety advisory concerning six dead geese found in and around Heckscher Park.

According to the DEC, avian influenza, commonly called bird flu, is a viral disease in wild birds such as ducks and geese, gulls, raptors and shorebirds. Some viruses are more severe than others and can also affect domestic gamebirds and poultry like chickens, turkeys and other birds. Those that cause severe disease in poultry are called Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza viruses. These viruses can spread quickly in affected flocks.

The public should strongly consider that groups of birds found dead are HPAI positive and should follow CDC safety protocols to reduce contact. The DEC advises the public to avoid any contact with sick or dead birds and mammals that may be infected with HPAI.