The Marion County Health Department is collecting dead birds. The department is looking for crows and blue jays to test for West Nile Virus.

So far, no case of the virus have been found in studies of mosquitoes, birds, or horses.

Crows and blue jays, collectively known as corvids, are consistently good sentinels for West Nile activity.

If you find a dead crow or blue jay on your property, double bag them and take the birds to the Marion County Health Department Monday through Friday from 8 AM to noon. Birds should be refrigerated or frozen to prevent decomposition.

Remember to avoid barehanded contact with the birds.