A Waterfowl Hunter’s Guide to Bird Flu in Oklahoma

As we move through the 2025–2026 waterfowl season, hunters in the Central Flyway are seeing a higher presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), specifically the H5N1 strain.

While the OKDWC notes that the risk to humans and dogs remains low, this virus is a significant threat to Oklahoma’s poultry industry and local backyard flocks.

If you are heading out to the blind this month, here is how to stay safe and protect your neighbors' livelihoods.