Avian Flu Hits Great Falls – No Public Waterfowl Roundup

If you were hoping to take the family down to Gibson Park in Great Falls next week to see the annual roundup of waterfowl as they are moved to the Honker Hilton, you'll need to enjoy a different experience.

via GIPHY

This year's roundup has been suddenly cancelled due to Avian Flu infecting one of the local geese that call the pond at the park home.  The event had been scheduled for Friday October 17th, 2025, in Great Falls.

Get our free mobile app

Avian Flu Hits Great Falls - No Public Waterfowl Roundup

The Great Falls Park and Recreation Department announced late Thursday that a sick goose had tested positive for the virus.  As a precaution, the roundup will be put on hold while an assessment of the waterfowl at the pond is occurring.

READ MORE:  City to Roundup Local Waterfowl for Honker Hilton Residency

According to the city, the waterfowl will still be cared for by workers as "we are working with a wildlife veterinarian to determine the safest time to move the park flock indoors for the winter."

Be Extra Cautious with Wildlife and Waterfowl at Gibson Park

The city has posted signage around the park indicating that people are reminded to "refrain from touching wildlife and to please keep your pets away from wild birds."

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has stated previously that there isn't a serious threat to humans regarding Avian Flu, but people should still take precautions when in contact with live or deceased wildlife.  To date, no HPAI infections have ever been reported among humans in Montana.  If you have questions about the City of Great Falls waterfowl and Avian Flu, learn more here.