Scientists perform postmortem examination of double-crested cormorant

Wildlife disease experts at the USGS National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, WI examine a double-crested cormorant while wearing full biosafety gear.  The postmortem examination, also known as a necropsy, gives the scientists clues to what may have caused the animal to die.  Examination of wild birds is important to detect pathogens that could impact wildlife populations or be transmitted to domestic animals or people.