Overview

Dead wild animals (carcasses) can transmit diseases and parasites to people, pets and other wildlife, including:

You should avoid direct contact with wild animals, dead or alive, if possible.

If you must handle carcasses, follow proper safety precautions, including using personal protective equipment and cleaning tools after use.

Report dead wild animals that were sick or acting strange prior to death.

Protect yourself

When handling dead wildlife is necessary, for example, as part of your job or to dispose of dead wildlife on your property, follow safety precautions to protect yourself and others from diseases and parasites.

Depending on the situation, you should:

  • wear thick washable or disposable gloves
  • wear eye protection and a face covering (such as a mask) to protect against splashes
  • wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, or use hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds after removing gloves
  • keep young children and pets away from carcasses and animal parts
  • work outdoors or in a well-ventilated location, whenever possible
  • clean all equipment and hard surfaces with soap and water, and then apply a disinfectant (such as 10% bleach) for at least 5 minutes before rinsing
  • do not eat, drink or smoke around carcasses or before you wash or sanitize your hands after handling dead wildlife
  • clean clothing afterward by washing in hot water and tumble dry on hot
  • do not feed uncooked animal parts to pets or livestock

Handling practices

If you must collect or dispose of a wild animal carcass, follow these practices to protect against diseases and parasites:

  • dispose of carcases according to municipal guidance (for example, in a landfill that accepts animal carcasses)
  • bury carcasses at least 2 feet deep (where allowed in rural areas) and as far as possible from drinking water sources
  • take steps to prevent scavenging (for example, covering with a weighted box while awaiting burial or transport)
  • protect yourself with safety equipment and appropriate cleaning and disinfection
  • avoid direct contact with bodily fluids

Safety for hunters

Do not eat any part of an animal that appeared sick before it died or that was found dead, as it could make you sick.

Follow safe handling practices and proper preparation, storage and cooking methods for any wild game that you hunt or trap.

For more information on safe handling and preparation, contact your local public health unit.

Learn more about food safety for hunting.

Report dead wild animals

If you come in direct contact with wild animals, dead or alive, and are concerned about potential exposure to diseases or parasites, contact one of the following as soon as possible:

Find out where to report a potentially rabid animal.

Report dead wild animals that were sick or strange acting prior to death to either: