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Bird flu has claimed the lives of a seal and a Chilean flamingo Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo.
The zoo said it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Chilean flamingo Teal and seal Slater.
“This is sad news for wildlife and for the zoo team. “Not only are we facing the first known cases of HPAI in animals in our care, but we have also lost two amazing animals,” said Lester E. Fisher and Dr. Kathryn Gamble, director of veterinary services, said in a statement. “While highly pathogenic birds.” “Influenza is a naturally occurring virus in wild waterfowl. Since 2022, additional mammalian species have been reported to be susceptible to HPAI.”
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The zoo said it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Chilean flamingo Teal and seal Slater. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
The zoo could not confirm the source of exposure, but the Centers for Disease Control says HPAI is spread through saliva, nasal secretions and the feces of infected birds.
They said there is no risk for zoo visitors of contracting the disease from the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
“Because highly pathogenic avian influenza is transmitted by wild birds, a visit to Lincoln Park Zoo is no riskier than a walk outside,” said Megan Ross, president and CEO and ornithologist. “The zoo remains a safe place to connect with the animals in our care.”
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The zoo said it received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of death for Chilean flamingo Teal and Slater seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
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The zoo has been monitoring HPAI, so there is one Response plan in place. The plan is aimed at staff and animals. This includes personal protective equipment and eliminating cross-contamination between species, as well as monitoring the behavior of individual animals, the zoo said in a statement. They have also closed the McCormick Bird House and will remain closed until further notice.
The zoo said it received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of death for Chilean flamingo Teal and Slater seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
The zoo also said in its statement that it is important to keep personal pets indoors and away from wildlife.
“Sharing this message about highly pathogenic avian influenza in the region is important to our community at large,” said Seth Magle, director of the Urban Wildlife Institute. “To protect yourself, do not handle wildlife. Additionally, keep your pets safe by keeping them Cats inside and dogs on a leash, away from wild animals.
