Programs -> Mosquitoes -> West Nile Virus -> Dead Birds and Squirrels
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| American Crow |
Positive dead birds and squirrels are often the first indicator that West Nile virus exists in an area. Certain species of birds are very susceptible to West Nile virus and will die quickly after infection, while others can live with the virus. Information on the species and location of infected birds is used to make calculated decisions on mosquito control.
The first indicator of West Nile virus in San Mateo County was a dead bird in July, 2004. The table below shows West Nile virus activity in San Mateo County:
| Dead Birds and/or Squirrels Testing Positive for WNV in San Mateo County |
Year |
Birds |
Squirrels |
2008 |
2 |
1 |
2007 |
1 |
1 |
2006 |
7 |
2 |
2005 |
10 |
N/A |
2004 |
15 |
N/A |
For more information on West Nile virus and squirrels - Click Here
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