Protect Your Birds from HPAI as Wild Birds Migrate

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) wants to remind bird owners to stay cautious about highly contagious avian influenza (HPAI) as wild birds start migrating.

While Michigan has been fortunate to report no new HPAI cases in domestic bird flocks since March 2023, the threat still lingers nationwide. With the impending fall migration of wild birds, it's imperative to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to shield our domestic flocks.

HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can spread through multiple avenues, including contact with wild birds, infected poultry, equipment, and even via caretakers' clothing and footwear.

To ensure the safety of your feathered friends, here are key measures to follow:

• Keep Birds Protected: House birds indoors or in fully enclosed outdoor spaces.

• Practice Prudent Hygiene: Maintain rigorous hand hygiene, washing before and after handling birds, and disinfecting boots and gear during coop transitions.

• Avoid Equipment Sharing: Refrain from sharing equipment or supplies with other bird owners.

• Thorough Disinfection: Properly clean and disinfect equipment and supplies, discarding items that can't be disinfected.

• Secure Water and Feed: Use well or municipal water as a safe drinking source, and keep poultry feed away from wild birds or rodents.

Should you observe any signs of illness in your birds, such as sudden deaths, reduced egg production, or a significant decrease in water consumption, don't hesitate to contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).

Moreover, if you come across unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, report these incidents to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) through the DNR's Eyes in the Field app or by contacting the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

By diligently adhering to these protective measures, you play a vital role in preserving the well-being of Michigan's cherished birds during their migration and beyond.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex