Be in the know about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI):
Wildlife Rehabilitators around the country are heading into their busiest time of year while also grappling with a nationwide outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). While past avian influenzas have affected mostly domestic poultry, the current strain is highly infectious to native wild birds. Affected species include waterfowl, raptors, and other scavenging birds. Reactions among wild birds to the virus can be varied. Waterfowl such as ducks and geese can carry and spread the virus while being asymptomatic whereas infected raptors will show neurologic symptoms quickly and die within days.
Wildlife Rehabilitation centers around the country, including Cedar Run, are instituting strict protocols to avoid contamination of their hospitals and infection of their resident avian wildlife ambassadors. If you are admitting one of the affected species mentioned above, PLEASE look for signage to direct you on what to do or where to put animals when you arrive. Please be understanding of any extra questions that are asked or precautions you are asked to take. At this time, there has not been evidence to suggest that HPAI affects songbirds. However, some sources are suggesting bird feeders be taken down simply to avoid the gathering of any birds. HPAI is also infectious to pet birds, especially chickens and ducks.
If you find an injured wild bird of the affected species, DO NOT keep the bird near your pet birds. Wear gloves while transferring the animal to a disposable box. Please shower and wash any clothes that were worn while handling the wild bird before you go near your pet birds.
Please remember, Cedar Run DOES NOT accept any domestic ducks, geese, chickens, or domestic turkeys. These species can be super-spreaders of HPAI and bringing them to Cedar Run can pose a serious risk to our other animals.
For more information regarding HPAI please consult the USDA website for the latest information.
Updated 5/4/22
