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Western Small Flocks Collaborative

Waste Management and Mortalities

Five simple steps to manage waste and dead birds can help keep your flock healthy and reduce disease risk.

Waste and Mortalities Management Factsheet
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Key Points

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Always review local zoning, permitting, ordinances, and health codes

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Check your HOA and zoning information

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Many places don’t allow burial or open burning

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Some cities and HOAs limit how waste is stored or handled

Follow theses steps for decreasing waste and handling mortalities

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Wear Protection While Cleaning

Protect yourself during coop cleaning and when handling dead birds.

  • Always wear gloves and a mask
  • Wash hands, equipment, and boots after
  • Avoid eating, drinking, or touching your face during clean-up
  • If disease is suspected, add coveralls or eye protection
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Keep the Coop Clean

Cleaning reduces moisture, odors, and germs.

  • Deep clean every few months with poultry-safe disinfectants.
  • Remove soiled bedding and droppings regularly.
How To Guide: Coop Cleaning and Disinfection
Silhouette icon of a brown light bulb Tip: Need step-by-step cleaning tips? Our Coop Cleaning page has details on how to clean a coop.
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Manage Normal Coop Waste

Have a plan for bedding and manure, since different options work in different areas.

Composting

  • Keep piles away from the coop and water sources
  • Secure waste from rodents, pets, and wild birds
  • Composting varies by climate make sure to follow local guidance
  • Learn more about composting at the links below:
Composting from CSU
Composting from NMSU

Landfill Disposal

  • Bag and place waste in a secure, lidded bin
  • A good option in cold weather or where composting isn’t practical
  • Wash hands and tools afterward
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When Disease Is a Concern

If illness is suspected, take added precautions.

  • Double-bag the bird and spray outer bag with disinfectant
  • Use a lidded bin for disposal
  • Don’t leave carcasses where animals can reach them
  • Disinfect all tools, boots, and surfaces after handling
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Have a Plan for Mortalities

Know what to do before a bird dies.

  • Remove dead birds promptly to reduce spread of disease and risk of maggots
  • If you have multiple deaths or suspect Avian Influenza, contact your state animal health official immediately
  • You can request a necropsy from a veterinarian or vet lab. This is an exam of an animal that died to learn the cause of death.

Disposal Options

Some cities and HOAs limit how waste is stored or handled. Always review local zoning, permitting, ordinances, and health codes. Many places don’t allow burial or open burning. 

Trash Disposal

  • Most backyard birds can go in your normal household waste
  • Double-bag carcasses
  • Spray the outer bag with disinfectant if disease is suspected
  • Place in a secure outdoor bin
  • Wash your hands after handling waste
Rules and Regulations Webpage

Composting

  • Not recommended for carcasses in small flocks
  • Animal waste (meat, bones, whole birds) causes odors and attracts pests

Burial or Burning

  • Often restricted or prohibited
  • Always check local rules first