Avian flu outbreak causing unprecedented deaths in wild Minnesota birds, eagles – Star Tribune

In three weeks, 42% of birds at the University of Minnesota Raptor Center have tested positive for the avian flu. All but one have died.  Minnesota has never seen an outbreak of this magnitude in the bird population.

Current protocols have been to isolate non-infected birds from the infected and euthanize birds suffering and close to death from the virus.   Minnesota DNR is advising all residents to remove bird feeders, birdbaths, and any other communal bird attractions to slow the spread of the virus.

I know what you’re thinking.  The risk of people catching the bird flu is extremely low, with no cases reported in humans.

Read more on this at the following additional news sources:

1. Avian flu outbreak causing unprecedented deaths in wild Minnesota birds, eagles  Star Tribune
2. Raptor Center details devastating toll of avian influenza  KARE 11
3. Bird flu outbreak: Experts warn to stop filling backyard bird feeders  NJ.com
4. Avian flu concerns: Should you take down bird feeders?  13 ON YOUR SIDE
5. Michigan wildlife officials ask residents to consider removing bird feeders  WJRT
6. View Full Coverage on Google News