Bird Infected by West Nile Virus Found in Palo Cedro

A bird infected with West Nile Virus was found in Palo Cedro in a yard off of Old Fourty-Four Drive last Friday. But because of when it was found it was almost never tested.

Pat Piccassi found it around six p-m on friday and called the west nile virus report line he picked up the bird right behind his house.

Piccassi was told that the earliest someone could come get it was on Monday so he decided to hang onto the bird so it could be tested by putting it in his freezer.

In order to preserve the bird, Piccassi wrapped the bird in 2 plastic bags and put it in its own separate drawer. But state officials don't recommend putting a dead animal in your freezer. In this case though, preserving the bird's body did lead to the positive test. Instead they recommend that you dispose of it if it isn't picked up by 5 pm that evening.

They still are encouraging everyone who comes across a dead bird to report it even if it means just leaving a message.

If you find a dead bird or small animal outside your home you can call 1-877-968-2473 to report it