Lincoln Park Zoo joins zoos across continent moving birds inside amid new bird flu outbreak

CHICAGO (WLS) — Zoos throughout North America, together with Chicago’s very personal Lincoln Park Zoo, are transferring their birds indoors and away from individuals and wildlife as they attempt to shield them from the extremely contagious and probably lethal avian influenza, also called the chook flu.

The closest instances of the viral an infection have been detected in Will County and the zoos are taking no probabilities.

Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, Brookfield Zoo and Clean Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa, are among the many zoos taking further precautions.

Penguins often is the solely birds guests to many zoos can see proper now, as a result of they already are saved inside and often protected behind glass of their reveals.

“It’s a lethal virus. Not solely can it take the lives of birds, however it will possibly unfold in a short time,” stated Dave Bernier, with the Lincoln Park Zoo.

It is a related state of affairs at Brookfield Zoo, the place the majestic peacocks, geese and different fowl are being saved in holding areas the place the zoo’s veterinary employees can carefully monitor them.

Almost 23 million chickens and turkeys have already been killed throughout america to restrict the unfold of the virus.

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Zoos are working arduous to stop any of their birds from assembly the identical destiny.

Throughout feeding time at All Grass Farms in Dundee, the rooster there roam free and eat an all-natural weight-reduction plan, which farmers consider provides them a robust immune system to assist chase away the avian flu.

“They’ve recent air all day, tons of area and recent grass,” stated Mike Milkowski, with All Grass Farms.

The hens produce a wholesome quantity of eggs, which add as much as about six or seven per week every. Nonetheless, because of the chook flu, most grocery shops are charging extra for these eggs.

Economists stated costs for eggs are up greater than 50% since February — simply in time for Easter when they’re within the biggest demand.

“We’ve not seen the impact on chickens but however we anticipate it’s going to come,” stated Northwestern College Economics professor Phillip Braun.

Birds unfold the virus by droppings and nasal discharge. Consultants stated it may be unfold by contaminated gear, clothes, boots and automobiles carrying provides.

Whereas it’s lethal to birds, specialists stated the chook flu pressure just isn’t transmissible to people.

On the zoo, they’ve a QR code you’ll be able to scan which takes you to a web page that provides you extra details about the chook flu. It additionally says how lengthy these reveals will likely be closed.