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Birmingham Zoo Protects Birds Against Avian Influenza A response to HPAI confirmations in Alabama – November 15th, 2022

Birmingham Zoo is implementing biosecurity measures to protect all birds inside the Zoo, which will mean many birds will be off-habitat and not viewable by Zoo guests. The Zoo has been proactive to protect birds at your Zoo from the recently confirmed presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alabama by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). The Birmingham Zoo is taking all precautions necessary to ensure your Zoo’s birds stay safe and healthy. This confirmation of HPAI in wild black vultures in Montgomery County, Alabama, is the second confirmation of HPAI in Alabama since February 2022

In response, Birmingham Zoo Animal Care staff are in the process of moving the majority of birds indoors and covering habitats with tents to ensure their health and safety. According to Dr. Stephanie McCain, DVM, Dipl ACZM, Birmingham Zoo Director of Animal Health, “We have been monitoring the situation closely and are implementing increased measures to protect the Zoo’s birds. This includes the temporary closure of many outdoor habitats as the birds move to interior areas where we can limit contact with wild birds who may be carriers of HPAI.”

“The health and welfare of your Zoo’s animals come first,” says Chris Pfefferkorn. “We understand some visitors will miss seeing many of the birds temporarily, but we are pleased to offer so many other amazing animals and experiences here at the Zoo, that will not be affected by these precautions.”

 

View Birmingham Zoo Protects Birds Against Avian Influenza Press release pdf HERE