Avian influenza has claimed the lives of harbor seals and Chilean flamingos in Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago.
The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal.
“This is sad news Wildlife and Zoo team. Director of Veterinary Services Lester E. “Not only are we experiencing the first known cases of HPAI in animals in our care, but we have lost two wonderful animals,” Fisher and Dr. Katherine Gamble said in a statement. Influenza is a virus that occurs naturally in free-roaming waterfowl, and more mammalian species have been reported to be susceptible to HPAI since 2022.
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The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
The zoo has not been able to confirm the source of exposure, but the Centers for Disease Control says the bird flu virus is spread through the saliva, nasal secretions and feces of infected birds.
They have said zoo visitors are not at risk of contracting the disease from animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
“Because highly pathogenic avian influenza is spread by free-ranging birds, visiting Lincoln Park Zoo is no more risky than enjoying a walk outdoors,” said Megan Ross, president, CEO and ornithologist. “The Zoo remains a safe place to connect with the animals in our care.”
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The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
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The zoo has been monitoring the HPAI virus, so there it is Response plan in place. The plan addresses employees and animals. It includes personal protective equipment, removing cross-contamination between species, while monitoring the behavior of individual animals, according to a statement issued by the zoo. They have also closed the McCormick Bird House and will be closed until further notice.
The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor 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 news about highly pathogenic avian influenza in the region is important for our community as a whole,” said Urban Wildlife Institute Director Seth Magel. “To protect yourself, do not handle wildlife. Additionally, keep your pets safe by keeping them safe Indoor cats and dogs chained away from the wild.”
