AI viruses have been found in many bird species but are most often found in migratory waterfowl (ducks, geese and swans).
Other wild birds known to be capable of harboring influenza viruses include shorebirds, gulls, quail, hawks, falcons and pheasants.
The virus is shed in fecal droppings, mucus, saliva and nasal discharge.
With this current HPAI strain, H5N1, bald eagles, terns, gulls and cormorants have been particularly affected and large mortality events have been documented throughout North America, including Michigan and the Great Lakes region.