Researchers from Cornell University have released the results of a new study that claims to show the spread of avian influenza (bird flu). Their study stated that the virus has been transmitted to wild bobcats and has claimed the life of one of the cats that was part of the study.

“They’re this cryptic species that we don’t know much about,” said Jennifer Bloodgood, wildlife vet, New York State Wildlife Health Program. “You don’t see them a lot when you’re outside. It was a surprise to us and kind of a warning of what this could mean for their populations.”

“To look at dead and sick animals and look for diseases in those animals to identify potential new diseases or trends in existing diseases,” said Bloodgood. “So I think it’s really important to monitor this disease and see what’s going on so that we can protect ourselves and our pets.”

Researchers noted one of the bobcats died weeks into the study from the virus, after not having been initially exposed at the onset, according to a report by Spectrum News 1 out of Syracuse. 

Bird flu has been circulating in domestic cats for some time, and the mainstream media continues to fearmonger about its potential cross-over to humans.

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“That lets us know what’s going on in the wild, and whether we should respond or test that animal so we know about more what’s going on,” said Bloodgood.

Core bobcat hotspots across the state continue to be the Adirondack, Catskill and Taconic mountains, yet have also expanded into Central and Western New York, as well as the Southern Tier.

Researchers say the marten, a type of weasel, is next on the list for bird flu testing.

Bloodgood says that people should keep children away from all dead animals and wear gloves and masks when handling them to prevent the spread of the virus.

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