AUSTIN, Texas — Multiple ducks found dead at a shopping center in northwest Austin have tested positive for avian influenza (HPAI), according to preliminary results from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The domestic ducks were recovered from the ponds at the Arboretum Shopping Center. Experts say HPAI has been circulating among wild birds in Texas as they visit their wintering grounds, with recent detections spanning several counties, including Wharton, Galveston, El Paso, Potter, and Harris.

HPAI, a highly contagious virus, has been detected in all U.S. states and can spread easily among wild and domestic birds. The department advises wildlife rehabilitators to exercise caution when admitting animals with signs consistent with HPAI and to quarantine them to prevent exposure to other animals.

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The public is urged to help curb transmission by avoiding unnecessary contact with wild birds, taking down bird feeders and baths, and not handling sick or dead wildlife.

Although the risk of human transmission from infected birds remains low, basic protective measures should be taken if contact with wild animals is unavoidable. Those who develop symptoms should immediately contact their healthcare provider.

The public is encouraged to report wild animals displaying signs consistent with HPAI to their local TPWD wildlife biologist.