## Breadcrumb

-  Science 
-  Science Explorer 
-  Biology 

# Disease and Contaminants

## How do we help?

### Science to Support Wildlife Disease Management

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## Avian Influenza in the United States  

### USGS scientists across the country are assessing how the movement of migratory waterfowl impacts the spread of avian influenza.

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## Waste not, want not: How USGS capabilities enhance COVID-19 wastewater surveillance

### Checking wastewater for infectious disease is an important tool to prevent new infectious disease outbreaks

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## Oh Deer! 

### The high costs of chronic wasting disease 

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## Lead Poisoning in Bald and Golden Eagles 

### Groundbreaking study finds nearly 50 percent of birds sampled showed evidence of repeated exposure to lead. 

Learn More

## USGS Response to White-Nose Syndrome in Bats 

### The USGS has been a leading contributor to the interagency response to white-nose syndrome since 2008, when millions of bats died from this devastating disease. 

Learn More

## Evaluating Impacts of Stormwater and Road Runoff on Salmon and Aquatic Ecosystems

### How can automobiles pose a threat to our aquatic ecosystems?

Learn More

            -              Overview           
            -              Publications           
            -              Science           
            -              Data and More           
            -              Multimedia           
            -              News           
            -              FAQ           

#### Diseases and Pathogens 

View Media Details

*Gleotrichia *
*Gleotrichia*

Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites are a normal part of any ecosystem. But viruses, along with some bacteria, fungi, and parasites, can also be pathogens, meaning they cause disease in humans, plants, and wildlife. The fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans causes the deadly white-nose syndrome in hibernating bats. A tiny protein particle known as a prion causes the fatal brain disease Chronic Wasting Disease in deer. The H5N1 virus causes avian influenza in birds. These diseases can devastate wildlife populations and have serious conservation and management consequences. The health of people is also connected to the health of wildlife and our shared environment. Some diseases, known as zoonotic diseases, can jump from animals to humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of known infectious diseases in people can be spread from animals, and three out of every four new or emerging infectious diseases in people come from animals. Other diseases can jump from wild animals to domestic animals.  

USGS is a leader in wildlife disease research and surveillance. The USGS monitors the presence of pathogens and diseases in animals and the environment, develops tools for their detection, identifies whether environmental factors influence their spread, and studies the health risks that they pose. Our scientists are at the table with public and animal health agencies as they tackle diseases that affect mammals, fish, reptiles, and more, developing advanced tools for diagnosis, surveillance, risk assessment, and control.   

 

#### Contaminants and Toxins 

Contaminants and toxins represent another potential threat to the health of humans and wildlife, and in their shared environment. People use chemical-based products every day, and these chemicals enter the environment from treated wastewater, industrial processes, runoff from urban and agricultural land surfaces, and more. Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are just a few examples of the many contaminants that make their way into our Nation’s waterways each day. Contaminants may be found at high levels and cause immediate effects or occur lower levels and only cause problems after long-term exposure, and sometimes the chemicals are at low enough levels that they do not by themselves create a health risk.   

The environment also contains natural toxins. For example, algal blooms often contain cyanobacteria and other microorganisms which can produce natural toxins that harm people, pets, and wildlife when they occur at high enough levels in water resources used for recreation and drinking water. Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when environmental conditions are favorable, such as when water temperatures are unusually warm, but human activities can also contribute to their occurrence, for example when fertilizers used on lawns and crops run off into waterways.  

USGS scientists develop and use advanced techniques and tools to quantify the presence of contaminants and toxins in the environment, determine when, where, and how exposure occurs, forecast future occurrence, and assess their effects all the way up the food chain. 

#### Supporting the Health of Our Wildlife, Lands, and Waters 

The USGS is a leader in developing research solutions to address the deadliest wildlife diseases, detect pathogens in the environment, and monitor for the presence of dangerous chemicals and toxins.

Fish and Wildlife Disease

## Fish and Wildlife Disease

Zoonotic Diseases

## Zoonotic Diseases

Plant Diseases

## Plant Diseases

Pathogens

## Pathogens

Emerging Contaminants

## Emerging Contaminants

Toxins & Harmful Algal Blooms

## Toxins & Harmful Algal Blooms

#### Threat Detection and Rapid Response 

USGS science focuses on quickly detecting, characterizing, and responding to potential hazards and biological threats, including infectious diseases like chronic wasting disease and avian influenza and other pathogens like waterborne bacteria.  

The USGS is leading efforts to predict and forecast the risk of biological threats like infectious diseases and to ensure that these risks are detected early. This information helps federal, and state natural resource managers and public health professionals prepare for and respond to these threats. The USGS is developing a nationwide biosurveillance network to address ongoing and emerging needs through projects that improve threat detection, interagency communication, and early detection and rapid response decision making. Explore these activities below. 

View Media Details

#### Environmental DNA

Environmental DNA (eDNA), or DNA that is released from an organism into the environment, can allow for rapid, cost-effective data collection on the distribution and abundance of a species. It can also be used to understand the distribution and prevalence of pathogens on land or in water. 

View Media Details

*Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis*
a chytrid fungus that causes disease

View Media Details

a new approach

View Media Details

new early detection eDNA method
*Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae*

#### Investigating Exposure to Lethal Threats

Sometimes, the effects of biological threats are immediate and abrupt, such as the sudden and sharp decline of a population, an event known as a “die-off”. In other cases, impacts are felt over time, such as when small amounts of a contaminant build up in the tissues of organisms and can cause long-term effects on plant, animal, and even human health. USGS scientists work in collaboration with partner agencies to investigate the exposure of plants and animals to lethal diseases, pathogens, contaminants, and the impacts of these threats on species. 

View Media Details

harmful algae

View Media Details

severe Perkinsea infections (SPI)

View Media Details

mercury in dragonflies

## Publications

November 17, 2023

####                 Evaluating management alternatives for Wyoming elk feedgrounds in consideration of chronic wasting disease              

Executive SummaryThe authors used decision and modeling analyses to evaluate management alternatives for a decision on whether to permit Cervus canadensis (elk) feeding on two sites on Bridger-Teton National Forest, Dell Creek and Forest Park. Supplemental feeding of elk could increase the transmission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) locally and disease spread regionally, potentially impacting el

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center

November 14, 2023

####                 Assessing the ecological risk of heavy metal sediment contamination from Port Everglades Florida USA              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center 

July 21, 2022

####                 WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife  disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the  biosurveillance community              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

April 14, 2022

####                 Hawaiian forest bird conservation strategies for minimizing the risk of extinction: biological and biocultural considerations              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

December 15, 2021

####                 Integrated science for the study of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment—A strategic science vision for the U.S. Geological Survey              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Columbia Environmental Research Center, New England Water Science Center, New Jersey Water Science Center, South Atlantic Water Science Center (SAWSC)

View All

## Science

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America              

Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

Learn More

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Avian Influenza Research              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Avian Influenza Research

Learn More

link

January 3, 2024

####                 Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds              

Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

January 3, 2024

####   Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds

Learn More

link

December 14, 2023

####                 Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

December 14, 2023

####   Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease

Learn More

link

August 8, 2023

####                 A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer              

Central Midwest Water Science Center, Columbia Environmental Research Center

link

August 8, 2023

####   A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer

Learn More

View All

## Multimedia

USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

eDNA sample collection

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

eDNA sampling

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

Measuring brook trout length

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

View All

## News

USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

January 30, 2024

####   USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

January 26, 2024

####   Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

December 8, 2023

####   Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

View All

The publications listed below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

November 17, 2023

####                 Evaluating management alternatives for Wyoming elk feedgrounds in consideration of chronic wasting disease              

Executive SummaryThe authors used decision and modeling analyses to evaluate management alternatives for a decision on whether to permit Cervus canadensis (elk) feeding on two sites on Bridger-Teton National Forest, Dell Creek and Forest Park. Supplemental feeding of elk could increase the transmission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) locally and disease spread regionally, potentially impacting el

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center

November 14, 2023

####                 Assessing the ecological risk of heavy metal sediment contamination from Port Everglades Florida USA              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center 

July 21, 2022

####                 WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife  disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the  biosurveillance community              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

April 14, 2022

####                 Hawaiian forest bird conservation strategies for minimizing the risk of extinction: biological and biocultural considerations              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

December 15, 2021

####                 Integrated science for the study of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment—A strategic science vision for the U.S. Geological Survey              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Columbia Environmental Research Center, New England Water Science Center, New Jersey Water Science Center, South Atlantic Water Science Center (SAWSC)

July 30, 2019

####                 U.S. Geological Survey response to chronic wasting disease              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program

July 20, 2018

####                 U.S. Geological Survey response to white-nose syndrome in bats              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

September 10, 2015

####                 USGS role and response to highly pathogenic avian influenza              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center, Alaska Science Center

May 9, 2013

####                 Wildlife disease and environmental health in Alaska              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Alaska Science Center

The science listed below is a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America              

Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

Learn More

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Avian Influenza Research              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Avian Influenza Research

Learn More

link

January 3, 2024

####                 Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds              

Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

January 3, 2024

####   Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds

Learn More

link

December 14, 2023

####                 Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

December 14, 2023

####   Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease

Learn More

link

August 8, 2023

####                 A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer              

Central Midwest Water Science Center, Columbia Environmental Research Center

link

August 8, 2023

####   A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer

Learn More

link

June 28, 2023

####                 Selenium Cycling in Salton Sea Wetlands              

California Water Science Center, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

link

June 28, 2023

####   Selenium Cycling in Salton Sea Wetlands

Learn More

link

November 27, 2022

####                 Distribution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in North America, 2021/2022              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

November 27, 2022

####   Distribution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in North America, 2021/2022

Learn More

link

October 16, 2022

####                 Avian Influenza Surveillance              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

October 16, 2022

####   Avian Influenza Surveillance

Learn More

link

September 19, 2022

####                 COVID-19 Pathways and Wildlife Dynamics              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Western Fisheries Research Center

link

September 19, 2022

####   COVID-19 Pathways and Wildlife Dynamics

Learn More

link

September 1, 2022

####                 Pathology Case of the Month              

Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

September 1, 2022

####   Pathology Case of the Month

Learn More

link

June 1, 2022

####                 Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Integrated Science Team              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

link

June 1, 2022

####   Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Integrated Science Team

Learn More

link

April 14, 2022

####                 Avian Malaria Genomic Research Project              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

link

April 14, 2022

####   Avian Malaria Genomic Research Project

Learn More

#### Pagination

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The data listed below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

July 6, 2023

####                 PFAS in US Tapwater Interactive Dashboard              

Drinking-water quality and potential exposures to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the point-of-use (tapwater) are a rising concern in the United States (US).

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, New Jersey Water Science Center, South Atlantic Water Science Center (SAWSC)

April 12, 2022

####                 U.S. Geological Survey COVID-19 Wastewater Surveillance              

USGS, as part of the National Wastewater Surveillance System, designed and implemented high-frequency sampling of wastewater across six states throughout September 2021, to support tracking of potential increases in COVID-19 infections in communities. COVID-19 viral loads were determined for each sample with the goal of delivering results to the CDC within three days of sampling. 

Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Eastern Ecological Science Center

March 4, 2022

####                 Explore USGS Invasive Species Research              

The USGS provides information and tools needed to help solve problems posed by invasive species across the country. Key components of USGS invasive species science include developing novel prevention, forecasting, early detection, decision support, and control tools.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center 

April 23, 2021

####                 Mercury in Freshwater Fish of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed—Story Map              

The US Geological Survey (USGS), working with the partners in the watershed, compiled mercury data for freshwater fishes to understand how mercury concentrations, and risk to consumers, varies across the watershed.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Land Management Research Program, Chesapeake Bay Activities, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

July 22, 2020

####                 The Dragonfly Mercury Project—Story Map              

The Dragonfly Mercury Project is a citizen science framework for monitoring mercury pollution in U.S. national parks using dragonfly larvae as biosentinels. This Story Map provides an overview of the Project and includes an interactive map displaying results from across the country. Dragonflies were sampled from 100 U.S. national parks, including very remote areas.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

August 28, 2019

####                 USGS Biosurveillance Network              

USGS is leading efforts in risk prediction and forecasting, early detection, enhanced situational awareness, and consequence management for biological threats.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Communications and Publishing

July 1, 2019

####                 Wildlife Health Information Sharing Partnership – event reporting system (WHISPers)              

WHISPers, the Wildlife Health Information Sharing Partnership - event reporting system, is a partner-driven, web-based repository for sharing basic information about historic and ongoing wildlife mortality (death) and/or morbidity (illness) events. 

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

The multimedia listed below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

eDNA sample collection

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

eDNA sampling

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

Measuring brook trout length

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

March 15, 2022

#### MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

link

The Michigan Bacteriological Research Laboratory (MI-BaRL) research team (L to R) Laura Hubbard, Erin Stelzer, Alexei Rose, Molly Richard and Anlin Larson displaying essential tools used in developing laboratory methods to detect infectious avian influenza virus (AIV) in freshwater. The team will deploy these methods for environmental surveillance.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center

March 15, 2022

#### MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

link

#### MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

link

The Michigan Bacteriological Research Laboratory (MI-BaRL) research team (L to R) Laura Hubbard, Erin Stelzer, Alexei Rose, Molly Richard and Anlin Larson displaying essential tools used in developing laboratory methods to detect infectious avian influenza virus (AIV) in freshwater. The team will deploy these methods for environmental surveillance.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Lead poisoned bald eagle

December 10, 2021

#### Lead poisoned bald eagle

link

This bald eagle was admitted to The Raptor Center in St. Paul, MN where it was determined by veterinarians to be poisoned by lead. The bowed head, drooped wings, and green stained tail feathers are all typical signs of lead poisoning of raptors.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

December 10, 2021

#### Lead poisoned bald eagle

link

#### Lead poisoned bald eagle

link

This bald eagle was admitted to The Raptor Center in St. Paul, MN where it was determined by veterinarians to be poisoned by lead. The bowed head, drooped wings, and green stained tail feathers are all typical signs of lead poisoning of raptors.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

SMB PFAS sampling in PA

October 1, 2021

#### SMB PFAS sampling in PA

link

Vicki Blazer's group sampling smallmouth bass to do PFAS analysis of blood and blood plasma along with collecting tissues to look at other indicators of fish health such as histopathology and gene expression. These photos were taken at a sampling site in PA during October 2021. 

Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

October 1, 2021

#### SMB PFAS sampling in PA

link

#### SMB PFAS sampling in PA

link

Vicki Blazer's group sampling smallmouth bass to do PFAS analysis of blood and blood plasma along with collecting tissues to look at other indicators of fish health such as histopathology and gene expression. These photos were taken at a sampling site in PA during October 2021. 

Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

CyanoHABs - a photo journal

September 23, 2021

#### CyanoHABs - a photo journal

link

Water Resources, Ecosystems, Communications and Publishing

September 23, 2021

#### CyanoHABs - a photo journal

link

#### CyanoHABs - a photo journal

link

Water Resources, Ecosystems, Communications and Publishing

Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

February 3, 2020

#### Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

link

This adult female bald eagle is named "Relish." She was banded #57 and fitted with a GPS transmitter in January 2019 as part of the Raptor View Research Institute's bird-lead study. She nested near the Great Slave Lake in the NW Territories, Canada in the Summer of 2019. Her transmitter stopped sending location data in May 2020.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

February 3, 2020

#### Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

link

#### Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

link

This adult female bald eagle is named "Relish." She was banded #57 and fitted with a GPS transmitter in January 2019 as part of the Raptor View Research Institute's bird-lead study. She nested near the Great Slave Lake in the NW Territories, Canada in the Summer of 2019. Her transmitter stopped sending location data in May 2020.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

September 17, 2019

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

link

Little brown bat (*Myotis lucifugus*) from an experimental infection trial with similar gross lesions as observed in this case. (A) Variably sized areas of depigmentation are widely distributed on the patagium. (B) Under UV-light, large areas of the patagium fluoresce orange.

National Wildlife Health Center

September 17, 2019

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

link

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

link

Little brown bat (*Myotis lucifugus*) from an experimental infection trial with similar gross lesions as observed in this case. (A) Variably sized areas of depigmentation are widely distributed on the patagium. (B) Under UV-light, large areas of the patagium fluoresce orange.

National Wildlife Health Center

Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

July 24, 2019

#### Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

link

USGS Scientist Sarah Schoen with a plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins in Cook Inlet, Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

July 24, 2019

#### Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

link

#### Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

link

USGS Scientist Sarah Schoen with a plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins in Cook Inlet, Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

July 16, 2019

#### ​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

link

Northeast Region Photo Contest Winner | Sept 2019 | Honorable MentionDragonfly on tagline

New Jersey Water Science Center

July 16, 2019

#### ​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

link

#### ​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

link

Northeast Region Photo Contest Winner | Sept 2019 | Honorable MentionDragonfly on tagline

New Jersey Water Science Center

Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

July 9, 2019

#### Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

link

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is an emerging infectious disease that is fatal to free-ranging and captive animals in Cervidae (the deer family; referred to as “cervids”). Affected animals include deer, elk, moose, and reindeer.

Ecosystems, Cooperative Research Units

July 9, 2019

#### Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

link

#### Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

link

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is an emerging infectious disease that is fatal to free-ranging and captive animals in Cervidae (the deer family; referred to as “cervids”). Affected animals include deer, elk, moose, and reindeer.

Ecosystems, Cooperative Research Units

Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

April 15, 2019

#### Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

link

Andrew Reeves retrieving samples within Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska as part of USGS research to investigate the persistence of avian influenza viruses in North American wetlands.  USGS scientists and colleagues found that influenza A viruses may remain infectious in surface waters of northern wetlands for more than seven months. 

Alaska Science Center

April 15, 2019

#### Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

link

#### Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

link

Andrew Reeves retrieving samples within Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska as part of USGS research to investigate the persistence of avian influenza viruses in North American wetlands.  USGS scientists and colleagues found that influenza A viruses may remain infectious in surface waters of northern wetlands for more than seven months. 

Alaska Science Center

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

March 2, 2017

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

link

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Communications and Publishing

March 2, 2017

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

link

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

link

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Communications and Publishing

A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

October 31, 2016

#### A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

link

A bat with White-nose syndrome hanging in a cave. Photo by USFWS.

Fort Collins Science Center

October 31, 2016

#### A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

link

#### A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

link

A bat with White-nose syndrome hanging in a cave. Photo by USFWS.

Fort Collins Science Center

#### Pagination

-                Current page            1 
-                Page            2 
-  Next page›› 
-  Last pageLast » 

The news below is a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

January 30, 2024

####   USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

**Reston, Va. **— A new USGS report, co-produced with the Havasupai Tribe, identifies exposure pathways posed by uranium mining in the Grand Canyon...

Read Article

Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

January 26, 2024

####   Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

A new nationwide study by USGS scientists provides additional scientific evidence that pesticides are likely negatively impacting aquatic invertebrate...

Read Article

Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

December 8, 2023

####   Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

Partnering with the EPA, FAA, and the FWS, USGS scientists conducted the first of a series of small uncrewed aircraft system data collections...

Read Article

Smallmouth bass mercury levels linked to habitat types along the Snake River 

December 5, 2023

####   Smallmouth bass mercury levels linked to habitat types along the Snake River 

Mercury concentrations are twice as high in smallmouth bass found in reservoirs than those in the free-flowing sections of the Snake River in Idaho...

Read Article

Waste not, want not: How USGS capabilities enhance COVID-19 wastewater surveillance

November 19, 2023

####   Waste not, want not: How USGS capabilities enhance COVID-19 wastewater surveillance

You can tell a lot about someone’s health from their body’s waste. If you are fighting an infectious illness, you flush away more than yesterday’s...

Read Article

FORT geneticist Scott Cornman uses data mining to gain new insights into a mysterious virus infecting honey bees

November 15, 2023

####   FORT geneticist Scott Cornman uses data mining to gain new insights into a mysterious virus infecting honey bees

A new paper on an enigmatic giant virus of honey bees, Apis mellifera filamentous virus (AmFV), was recently authored by FORT geneticist (Robert)...

Read Article

Amphibians have one more thing to worry about—mercury—large USGS study shows

October 30, 2023

####   Amphibians have one more thing to worry about—mercury—large USGS study shows

**RESTON, Va.**— The first widescale assessment of methylmercury in adult amphibians in the U.S. to date shows that, in amphibians, this toxic compound...

Read Article

Directors Message: Knowledge Transfer is Vital to the Success of New Ventures in Fish Passage and Reintroduction

August 28, 2023

####   Directors Message: Knowledge Transfer is Vital to the Success of New Ventures in Fish Passage and Reintroduction

There are many unique challenges posed in fish passage and reintroduction projects, and knowledge transfer is critical to their success.

Read Article

New tool helps identify stormwater drainage, estimate pollutant inputs in Massachusetts

July 12, 2023

####   New tool helps identify stormwater drainage, estimate pollutant inputs in Massachusetts

**NORTHBOROUGH, Mass**. -  A new tool developed by the U.S. Geological Survey to help visualize stormwater drainage and estimate pollutant inputs in...

Read Article

New study describes HPAI infections in wild mammals in US

March 20, 2023

####   New study describes HPAI infections in wild mammals in US

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus (HPAIv) has been present in North America since its first detection in wild birds in November 2021...

Read Article

Creatures of the Night: The Frightening Threats to Bats

October 31, 2022

####   Creatures of the Night: The Frightening Threats to Bats

Bats play important roles in ecosystems around the world, but bat populations are at risk from disease, development, and more. USGS scientists are...

Read Article

First Study to Track a Wild Bird Known to Have Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

October 26, 2022

####   First Study to Track a Wild Bird Known to Have Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

**LAUREL, Md.**— For the first time, scientists have tracked the movement of a wild bird known to be infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza in...

Read Article

#### Pagination

-                Current page            1 
-                Page            2 
-                Page            3 
-  Next page›› 
-  Last pageLast » 

The FAQs below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

link

####                 What should I do if I find dead or dying bats, or if I observe bats with signs of White-nose Syndrome?              

If you find a dead or dying bat: Contact your state wildlife agency , file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a...

link

####   What should I do if I find dead or dying bats, or if I observe bats with signs of White-nose Syndrome?

If you find a dead or dying bat: Contact your state wildlife agency , file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a...

Learn More

#### Diseases and Pathogens 

View Media Details

*Gleotrichia *
*Gleotrichia*

Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites are a normal part of any ecosystem. But viruses, along with some bacteria, fungi, and parasites, can also be pathogens, meaning they cause disease in humans, plants, and wildlife. The fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans causes the deadly white-nose syndrome in hibernating bats. A tiny protein particle known as a prion causes the fatal brain disease Chronic Wasting Disease in deer. The H5N1 virus causes avian influenza in birds. These diseases can devastate wildlife populations and have serious conservation and management consequences. The health of people is also connected to the health of wildlife and our shared environment. Some diseases, known as zoonotic diseases, can jump from animals to humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of known infectious diseases in people can be spread from animals, and three out of every four new or emerging infectious diseases in people come from animals. Other diseases can jump from wild animals to domestic animals.  

USGS is a leader in wildlife disease research and surveillance. The USGS monitors the presence of pathogens and diseases in animals and the environment, develops tools for their detection, identifies whether environmental factors influence their spread, and studies the health risks that they pose. Our scientists are at the table with public and animal health agencies as they tackle diseases that affect mammals, fish, reptiles, and more, developing advanced tools for diagnosis, surveillance, risk assessment, and control.   

 

#### Contaminants and Toxins 

Contaminants and toxins represent another potential threat to the health of humans and wildlife, and in their shared environment. People use chemical-based products every day, and these chemicals enter the environment from treated wastewater, industrial processes, runoff from urban and agricultural land surfaces, and more. Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are just a few examples of the many contaminants that make their way into our Nation’s waterways each day. Contaminants may be found at high levels and cause immediate effects or occur lower levels and only cause problems after long-term exposure, and sometimes the chemicals are at low enough levels that they do not by themselves create a health risk.   

The environment also contains natural toxins. For example, algal blooms often contain cyanobacteria and other microorganisms which can produce natural toxins that harm people, pets, and wildlife when they occur at high enough levels in water resources used for recreation and drinking water. Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when environmental conditions are favorable, such as when water temperatures are unusually warm, but human activities can also contribute to their occurrence, for example when fertilizers used on lawns and crops run off into waterways.  

USGS scientists develop and use advanced techniques and tools to quantify the presence of contaminants and toxins in the environment, determine when, where, and how exposure occurs, forecast future occurrence, and assess their effects all the way up the food chain. 

#### Supporting the Health of Our Wildlife, Lands, and Waters 

The USGS is a leader in developing research solutions to address the deadliest wildlife diseases, detect pathogens in the environment, and monitor for the presence of dangerous chemicals and toxins.

Fish and Wildlife Disease

## Fish and Wildlife Disease

Zoonotic Diseases

## Zoonotic Diseases

Plant Diseases

## Plant Diseases

Pathogens

## Pathogens

Emerging Contaminants

## Emerging Contaminants

Toxins & Harmful Algal Blooms

## Toxins & Harmful Algal Blooms

#### Threat Detection and Rapid Response 

USGS science focuses on quickly detecting, characterizing, and responding to potential hazards and biological threats, including infectious diseases like chronic wasting disease and avian influenza and other pathogens like waterborne bacteria.  

The USGS is leading efforts to predict and forecast the risk of biological threats like infectious diseases and to ensure that these risks are detected early. This information helps federal, and state natural resource managers and public health professionals prepare for and respond to these threats. The USGS is developing a nationwide biosurveillance network to address ongoing and emerging needs through projects that improve threat detection, interagency communication, and early detection and rapid response decision making. Explore these activities below. 

View Media Details

#### Environmental DNA

Environmental DNA (eDNA), or DNA that is released from an organism into the environment, can allow for rapid, cost-effective data collection on the distribution and abundance of a species. It can also be used to understand the distribution and prevalence of pathogens on land or in water. 

View Media Details

*Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis*
a chytrid fungus that causes disease

View Media Details

a new approach

View Media Details

new early detection eDNA method
*Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae*

#### Investigating Exposure to Lethal Threats

Sometimes, the effects of biological threats are immediate and abrupt, such as the sudden and sharp decline of a population, an event known as a “die-off”. In other cases, impacts are felt over time, such as when small amounts of a contaminant build up in the tissues of organisms and can cause long-term effects on plant, animal, and even human health. USGS scientists work in collaboration with partner agencies to investigate the exposure of plants and animals to lethal diseases, pathogens, contaminants, and the impacts of these threats on species. 

View Media Details

harmful algae

View Media Details

severe Perkinsea infections (SPI)

View Media Details

mercury in dragonflies

## Publications

November 17, 2023

####                 Evaluating management alternatives for Wyoming elk feedgrounds in consideration of chronic wasting disease              

Executive SummaryThe authors used decision and modeling analyses to evaluate management alternatives for a decision on whether to permit Cervus canadensis (elk) feeding on two sites on Bridger-Teton National Forest, Dell Creek and Forest Park. Supplemental feeding of elk could increase the transmission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) locally and disease spread regionally, potentially impacting el

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center

November 14, 2023

####                 Assessing the ecological risk of heavy metal sediment contamination from Port Everglades Florida USA              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center 

July 21, 2022

####                 WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife  disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the  biosurveillance community              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

April 14, 2022

####                 Hawaiian forest bird conservation strategies for minimizing the risk of extinction: biological and biocultural considerations              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

December 15, 2021

####                 Integrated science for the study of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment—A strategic science vision for the U.S. Geological Survey              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Columbia Environmental Research Center, New England Water Science Center, New Jersey Water Science Center, South Atlantic Water Science Center (SAWSC)

View All

## Science

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America              

Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

Learn More

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Avian Influenza Research              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Avian Influenza Research

Learn More

link

January 3, 2024

####                 Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds              

Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

January 3, 2024

####   Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds

Learn More

link

December 14, 2023

####                 Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

December 14, 2023

####   Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease

Learn More

link

August 8, 2023

####                 A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer              

Central Midwest Water Science Center, Columbia Environmental Research Center

link

August 8, 2023

####   A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer

Learn More

View All

## Multimedia

USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

eDNA sample collection

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

eDNA sampling

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

Measuring brook trout length

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

View All

## News

USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

January 30, 2024

####   USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

January 26, 2024

####   Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

December 8, 2023

####   Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

View All

The publications listed below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

November 17, 2023

####                 Evaluating management alternatives for Wyoming elk feedgrounds in consideration of chronic wasting disease              

Executive SummaryThe authors used decision and modeling analyses to evaluate management alternatives for a decision on whether to permit Cervus canadensis (elk) feeding on two sites on Bridger-Teton National Forest, Dell Creek and Forest Park. Supplemental feeding of elk could increase the transmission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) locally and disease spread regionally, potentially impacting el

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center

November 14, 2023

####                 Assessing the ecological risk of heavy metal sediment contamination from Port Everglades Florida USA              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center 

July 21, 2022

####                 WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife  disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the  biosurveillance community              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

April 14, 2022

####                 Hawaiian forest bird conservation strategies for minimizing the risk of extinction: biological and biocultural considerations              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

December 15, 2021

####                 Integrated science for the study of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment—A strategic science vision for the U.S. Geological Survey              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Columbia Environmental Research Center, New England Water Science Center, New Jersey Water Science Center, South Atlantic Water Science Center (SAWSC)

July 30, 2019

####                 U.S. Geological Survey response to chronic wasting disease              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program

July 20, 2018

####                 U.S. Geological Survey response to white-nose syndrome in bats              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

September 10, 2015

####                 USGS role and response to highly pathogenic avian influenza              

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center, Alaska Science Center

May 9, 2013

####                 Wildlife disease and environmental health in Alaska              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Alaska Science Center

The science listed below is a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America              

Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

Learn More

link

April 9, 2024

####                 Avian Influenza Research              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 9, 2024

####   Avian Influenza Research

Learn More

link

January 3, 2024

####                 Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds              

Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

January 3, 2024

####   Harmful Algal Bloom Toxins in Alaska Seabirds

Learn More

link

December 14, 2023

####                 Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

December 14, 2023

####   Application of a systems approach for management of chronic wasting disease

Learn More

link

August 8, 2023

####                 A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer              

Central Midwest Water Science Center, Columbia Environmental Research Center

link

August 8, 2023

####   A National Assessment of Pesticide, PFAS, Microplastic, and Antibiotic Resistance Gene Exposures in White-Tailed Deer

Learn More

link

June 28, 2023

####                 Selenium Cycling in Salton Sea Wetlands              

California Water Science Center, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

link

June 28, 2023

####   Selenium Cycling in Salton Sea Wetlands

Learn More

link

November 27, 2022

####                 Distribution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in North America, 2021/2022              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

November 27, 2022

####   Distribution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in North America, 2021/2022

Learn More

link

October 16, 2022

####                 Avian Influenza Surveillance              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

October 16, 2022

####   Avian Influenza Surveillance

Learn More

link

September 19, 2022

####                 COVID-19 Pathways and Wildlife Dynamics              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Western Fisheries Research Center

link

September 19, 2022

####   COVID-19 Pathways and Wildlife Dynamics

Learn More

link

September 1, 2022

####                 Pathology Case of the Month              

Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, National Wildlife Health Center

link

September 1, 2022

####   Pathology Case of the Month

Learn More

link

June 1, 2022

####                 Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Integrated Science Team              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

link

June 1, 2022

####   Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Integrated Science Team

Learn More

link

April 14, 2022

####                 Avian Malaria Genomic Research Project              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

link

April 14, 2022

####   Avian Malaria Genomic Research Project

Learn More

#### Pagination

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The data listed below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

July 6, 2023

####                 PFAS in US Tapwater Interactive Dashboard              

Drinking-water quality and potential exposures to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the point-of-use (tapwater) are a rising concern in the United States (US).

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, New Jersey Water Science Center, South Atlantic Water Science Center (SAWSC)

April 12, 2022

####                 U.S. Geological Survey COVID-19 Wastewater Surveillance              

USGS, as part of the National Wastewater Surveillance System, designed and implemented high-frequency sampling of wastewater across six states throughout September 2021, to support tracking of potential increases in COVID-19 infections in communities. COVID-19 viral loads were determined for each sample with the goal of delivering results to the CDC within three days of sampling. 

Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Eastern Ecological Science Center

March 4, 2022

####                 Explore USGS Invasive Species Research              

The USGS provides information and tools needed to help solve problems posed by invasive species across the country. Key components of USGS invasive species science include developing novel prevention, forecasting, early detection, decision support, and control tools.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center 

April 23, 2021

####                 Mercury in Freshwater Fish of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed—Story Map              

The US Geological Survey (USGS), working with the partners in the watershed, compiled mercury data for freshwater fishes to understand how mercury concentrations, and risk to consumers, varies across the watershed.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Land Management Research Program, Chesapeake Bay Activities, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

July 22, 2020

####                 The Dragonfly Mercury Project—Story Map              

The Dragonfly Mercury Project is a citizen science framework for monitoring mercury pollution in U.S. national parks using dragonfly larvae as biosentinels. This Story Map provides an overview of the Project and includes an interactive map displaying results from across the country. Dragonflies were sampled from 100 U.S. national parks, including very remote areas.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

August 28, 2019

####                 USGS Biosurveillance Network              

USGS is leading efforts in risk prediction and forecasting, early detection, enhanced situational awareness, and consequence management for biological threats.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Communications and Publishing

July 1, 2019

####                 Wildlife Health Information Sharing Partnership – event reporting system (WHISPers)              

WHISPers, the Wildlife Health Information Sharing Partnership - event reporting system, is a partner-driven, web-based repository for sharing basic information about historic and ongoing wildlife mortality (death) and/or morbidity (illness) events. 

Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

The multimedia listed below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

June 7, 2023

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

#### USGS Laboratory for the Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

link

The U.S. Geological Survey laboratory for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) uses cutting-edge techniques to analyze environmental samples including tissues, plasma, water, and soils to undertake and support research projects across the country.

Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

March 30, 2023

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

#### PubTalk-03/2023: Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery

link

**Coral Reef in Crisis - Science to Guide Reef Restoration for Ecosystem Recovery**

By Ilsa Kuffner, Research Marine Biologist 

USGS St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center

Learn About:

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Public Lecture Series, Public Lecture Series

PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

February 23, 2023

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

#### PubTalk-02/2023: Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off

link

**Behind the Headlines of a Wildlife Disease Die-off**

**The how and why of wildlife disease investigation** 

By Dr. Kimberli Miller, Wildlife Disease Specialist 

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Public Lecture Series

eDNA sample collection

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sample collection

link

#### eDNA sample collection

link

USGS volunteer Liliana uses a syringe to draw an eDNA sample from a rock pool along the Puka Stream. The eDNA sampled by USGS field crews informs research on invasive mosquito population dynamics.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

eDNA sampling

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

January 15, 2023

#### eDNA sampling

link

#### eDNA sampling

link

Kili Kawaiaea and Liliana Tobar sampling eDNA from a rock pool along the Puka Stream.

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

Measuring brook trout length

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

January 13, 2023

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

#### Measuring brook trout length

link

A biologist measures the length of a brook trout as part of a study on environmental DNA (eDNA).

Environmental Health Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

September 28, 2022

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

#### Disease and Contaminates Affecting Wildlife and the Environment

link

Slide show with examples of disease and contaminates affecting wildlife and the environment

Alaska Science Center

Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

August 20, 2022

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

#### Scientist wades in wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza in Minnesota

link

Field assistant Kathryn Johncock wades in a wetland while filtering for infectious avian influenza virus at the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area, Roseau, Minnesota.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

May 18, 2022

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

#### Environmental Health Program Energy Lifecycle Integrated science Team Activities

link

 

Ecosystems, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology

MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

March 15, 2022

#### MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

link

The Michigan Bacteriological Research Laboratory (MI-BaRL) research team (L to R) Laura Hubbard, Erin Stelzer, Alexei Rose, Molly Richard and Anlin Larson displaying essential tools used in developing laboratory methods to detect infectious avian influenza virus (AIV) in freshwater. The team will deploy these methods for environmental surveillance.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center

March 15, 2022

#### MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

link

#### MI-BaRL research team displaying laboratory equipment used in developing avian influenza research methods

link

The Michigan Bacteriological Research Laboratory (MI-BaRL) research team (L to R) Laura Hubbard, Erin Stelzer, Alexei Rose, Molly Richard and Anlin Larson displaying essential tools used in developing laboratory methods to detect infectious avian influenza virus (AIV) in freshwater. The team will deploy these methods for environmental surveillance.

Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Lead poisoned bald eagle

December 10, 2021

#### Lead poisoned bald eagle

link

This bald eagle was admitted to The Raptor Center in St. Paul, MN where it was determined by veterinarians to be poisoned by lead. The bowed head, drooped wings, and green stained tail feathers are all typical signs of lead poisoning of raptors.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

December 10, 2021

#### Lead poisoned bald eagle

link

#### Lead poisoned bald eagle

link

This bald eagle was admitted to The Raptor Center in St. Paul, MN where it was determined by veterinarians to be poisoned by lead. The bowed head, drooped wings, and green stained tail feathers are all typical signs of lead poisoning of raptors.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

SMB PFAS sampling in PA

October 1, 2021

#### SMB PFAS sampling in PA

link

Vicki Blazer's group sampling smallmouth bass to do PFAS analysis of blood and blood plasma along with collecting tissues to look at other indicators of fish health such as histopathology and gene expression. These photos were taken at a sampling site in PA during October 2021. 

Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

October 1, 2021

#### SMB PFAS sampling in PA

link

#### SMB PFAS sampling in PA

link

Vicki Blazer's group sampling smallmouth bass to do PFAS analysis of blood and blood plasma along with collecting tissues to look at other indicators of fish health such as histopathology and gene expression. These photos were taken at a sampling site in PA during October 2021. 

Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

CyanoHABs - a photo journal

September 23, 2021

#### CyanoHABs - a photo journal

link

Water Resources, Ecosystems, Communications and Publishing

September 23, 2021

#### CyanoHABs - a photo journal

link

#### CyanoHABs - a photo journal

link

Water Resources, Ecosystems, Communications and Publishing

Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

February 3, 2020

#### Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

link

This adult female bald eagle is named "Relish." She was banded #57 and fitted with a GPS transmitter in January 2019 as part of the Raptor View Research Institute's bird-lead study. She nested near the Great Slave Lake in the NW Territories, Canada in the Summer of 2019. Her transmitter stopped sending location data in May 2020.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

February 3, 2020

#### Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

link

#### Adult Bald eagle, "Relish"

link

This adult female bald eagle is named "Relish." She was banded #57 and fitted with a GPS transmitter in January 2019 as part of the Raptor View Research Institute's bird-lead study. She nested near the Great Slave Lake in the NW Territories, Canada in the Summer of 2019. Her transmitter stopped sending location data in May 2020.

Ecosystems, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

September 17, 2019

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

link

Little brown bat (*Myotis lucifugus*) from an experimental infection trial with similar gross lesions as observed in this case. (A) Variably sized areas of depigmentation are widely distributed on the patagium. (B) Under UV-light, large areas of the patagium fluoresce orange.

National Wildlife Health Center

September 17, 2019

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

link

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome lesions

link

Little brown bat (*Myotis lucifugus*) from an experimental infection trial with similar gross lesions as observed in this case. (A) Variably sized areas of depigmentation are widely distributed on the patagium. (B) Under UV-light, large areas of the patagium fluoresce orange.

National Wildlife Health Center

Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

July 24, 2019

#### Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

link

USGS Scientist Sarah Schoen with a plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins in Cook Inlet, Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

July 24, 2019

#### Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

link

#### Scientist with plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins

link

USGS Scientist Sarah Schoen with a plankton sample to test for harmful algal bloom toxins in Cook Inlet, Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

July 16, 2019

#### ​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

link

Northeast Region Photo Contest Winner | Sept 2019 | Honorable MentionDragonfly on tagline

New Jersey Water Science Center

July 16, 2019

#### ​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

link

#### ​​​​​​​Dragonfly on tagline

link

Northeast Region Photo Contest Winner | Sept 2019 | Honorable MentionDragonfly on tagline

New Jersey Water Science Center

Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

July 9, 2019

#### Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

link

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is an emerging infectious disease that is fatal to free-ranging and captive animals in Cervidae (the deer family; referred to as “cervids”). Affected animals include deer, elk, moose, and reindeer.

Ecosystems, Cooperative Research Units

July 9, 2019

#### Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

link

#### Chronic wasting disease is an infectious disease

link

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is an emerging infectious disease that is fatal to free-ranging and captive animals in Cervidae (the deer family; referred to as “cervids”). Affected animals include deer, elk, moose, and reindeer.

Ecosystems, Cooperative Research Units

Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

April 15, 2019

#### Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

link

Andrew Reeves retrieving samples within Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska as part of USGS research to investigate the persistence of avian influenza viruses in North American wetlands.  USGS scientists and colleagues found that influenza A viruses may remain infectious in surface waters of northern wetlands for more than seven months. 

Alaska Science Center

April 15, 2019

#### Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

link

#### Andrew Reeves retrieving samples at Izembek NWR

link

Andrew Reeves retrieving samples within Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska as part of USGS research to investigate the persistence of avian influenza viruses in North American wetlands.  USGS scientists and colleagues found that influenza A viruses may remain infectious in surface waters of northern wetlands for more than seven months. 

Alaska Science Center

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

March 2, 2017

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

link

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Communications and Publishing

March 2, 2017

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

link

#### Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

link

Little brown bat with white-nose syndrome

Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Communications and Publishing

A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

October 31, 2016

#### A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

link

A bat with White-nose syndrome hanging in a cave. Photo by USFWS.

Fort Collins Science Center

October 31, 2016

#### A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

link

#### A bat with White-nose syndrome. 

link

A bat with White-nose syndrome hanging in a cave. Photo by USFWS.

Fort Collins Science Center

#### Pagination

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The news below is a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

January 30, 2024

####   USGS partners with Havasupai Tribe to identify potential contaminant exposure pathways from Grand Canyon uranium mining

**Reston, Va. **— A new USGS report, co-produced with the Havasupai Tribe, identifies exposure pathways posed by uranium mining in the Grand Canyon...

Read Article

Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

January 26, 2024

####   Pesticides are likely impacting invertebrate life essential to our nation’s streams

A new nationwide study by USGS scientists provides additional scientific evidence that pesticides are likely negatively impacting aquatic invertebrate...

Read Article

Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

December 8, 2023

####   Monitoring Change at the Lower Darby Creek Area Superfund Site

Partnering with the EPA, FAA, and the FWS, USGS scientists conducted the first of a series of small uncrewed aircraft system data collections...

Read Article

Smallmouth bass mercury levels linked to habitat types along the Snake River 

December 5, 2023

####   Smallmouth bass mercury levels linked to habitat types along the Snake River 

Mercury concentrations are twice as high in smallmouth bass found in reservoirs than those in the free-flowing sections of the Snake River in Idaho...

Read Article

Waste not, want not: How USGS capabilities enhance COVID-19 wastewater surveillance

November 19, 2023

####   Waste not, want not: How USGS capabilities enhance COVID-19 wastewater surveillance

You can tell a lot about someone’s health from their body’s waste. If you are fighting an infectious illness, you flush away more than yesterday’s...

Read Article

FORT geneticist Scott Cornman uses data mining to gain new insights into a mysterious virus infecting honey bees

November 15, 2023

####   FORT geneticist Scott Cornman uses data mining to gain new insights into a mysterious virus infecting honey bees

A new paper on an enigmatic giant virus of honey bees, Apis mellifera filamentous virus (AmFV), was recently authored by FORT geneticist (Robert)...

Read Article

Amphibians have one more thing to worry about—mercury—large USGS study shows

October 30, 2023

####   Amphibians have one more thing to worry about—mercury—large USGS study shows

**RESTON, Va.**— The first widescale assessment of methylmercury in adult amphibians in the U.S. to date shows that, in amphibians, this toxic compound...

Read Article

Directors Message: Knowledge Transfer is Vital to the Success of New Ventures in Fish Passage and Reintroduction

August 28, 2023

####   Directors Message: Knowledge Transfer is Vital to the Success of New Ventures in Fish Passage and Reintroduction

There are many unique challenges posed in fish passage and reintroduction projects, and knowledge transfer is critical to their success.

Read Article

New tool helps identify stormwater drainage, estimate pollutant inputs in Massachusetts

July 12, 2023

####   New tool helps identify stormwater drainage, estimate pollutant inputs in Massachusetts

**NORTHBOROUGH, Mass**. -  A new tool developed by the U.S. Geological Survey to help visualize stormwater drainage and estimate pollutant inputs in...

Read Article

New study describes HPAI infections in wild mammals in US

March 20, 2023

####   New study describes HPAI infections in wild mammals in US

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus (HPAIv) has been present in North America since its first detection in wild birds in November 2021...

Read Article

Creatures of the Night: The Frightening Threats to Bats

October 31, 2022

####   Creatures of the Night: The Frightening Threats to Bats

Bats play important roles in ecosystems around the world, but bat populations are at risk from disease, development, and more. USGS scientists are...

Read Article

First Study to Track a Wild Bird Known to Have Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

October 26, 2022

####   First Study to Track a Wild Bird Known to Have Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

**LAUREL, Md.**— For the first time, scientists have tracked the movement of a wild bird known to be infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza in...

Read Article

#### Pagination

-                Current page            1 
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-  Next page›› 
-  Last pageLast » 

The FAQs below are a sampling of USGS science on this topic and do not represent an exhaustive list.

link

####                 What should I do if I find dead or dying bats, or if I observe bats with signs of White-nose Syndrome?              

If you find a dead or dying bat: Contact your state wildlife agency , file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a...

link

####   What should I do if I find dead or dying bats, or if I observe bats with signs of White-nose Syndrome?

If you find a dead or dying bat: Contact your state wildlife agency , file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a...

Learn More