West Nile virus bird identification

Below are common species affected by West Nile virus. The Division of Wildlife Resources is no longer collecting these birds for West Nile virus testing. However, if you live within Salt Lake County, the Salt Lake County Health Department is conducting a special study and might collect your bird for testing. You may contact them at 801-534-4600.

Birds of the corvid family

	Common Raven Corvus corax Identification tips: Length: 24" Wingspan: 53" Weight: 2.6 lb Entirely black plumage Long narrow wings, wedged shaped tail, heavy bill Larger than the American Crow and not as gregarious
	American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos Identification tips: Length: 16–18" Wingspan: 39" Weight: 1lb Entirely black plumage Squared-off tail Short tail, broad wings
	Black-billed Magpie Pica pica Identification tips: Length: 19" Wingspan: 25" Weight: 6 oz. Color: White and black Plumage often appears iridescent White patches on wings in flight
	Western scrub jay Aphelocoma californica Identification tips: Length: 11–13" Crestless jay usually associated with oaks Color: Head, wings and tail are blue. Back is pale brownish; white throat.
	Stellar's Jay Cyanocitta stelleri Identification tips: Length: 12–13" A large, dark, black and blue bird Long crest Foreparts blackish, rest of body blue

Raptors (Hawks, Eagles and Falcons)

Raptors typically have a strong hooked beak and long curved talons. All raptors are wanted for WNV testing. Some examples are listed below.

	Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis Identification tips: Length: 19–25" Distinctive red coloration on topside of tail Light colored breast with streaked belly
	Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis Identification tips: Length: 20–26" Large robust hawk with longish tail Adult: Crown and cheek blackish with broad white stripe over the eye. Immature (shown): Pale stripe over the eye; irregular tail-banding
	Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos Identification tips: Length: 30–40" Wingspan: 7 ft. Glides and soars flat winged A gold band of feathers on the back of neck