DWR investigating after multiple dead birds found on Tappahannock bridge

ESSEX COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is investigating after multiple dead birds were found on the Route 17 Bridge over the Hoskins Creek in Tappahannock.

On Saturday, Dec. 27, the Tappahannock Police Department was alerted to the dead birds found on a road at Hoskins Creek.

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A spokesperson with the DWR told 8News that they have collected samples of the birds and that they won't know any more information until a biologists review them on Monday.

Dead birds found at Hoskins Creek in Tappahannock (Photo: Wayne Veney)

Dead birds found at Hoskins Creek in Tappahannock (Photo: Wayne Veney)

Tappahannock Police has referenced a DWR October 2025 press release about a rise in cases of dead black vultures across southwest Virginia. The DWR reported that these dead birds likely had Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), more commonly known as bird flu.

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Anyone who has seen a mass of dead birds should avoid contact.

This is an ongoing investigation, stay with 8News for updates.