Avian Flu in the News

Wild Birds Unlimited is closely monitoring the Avian Flu (bird flu) outbreak in the United States and Canada. We are committed to keeping you and your family safe and informed about issues that may affect the hobby of bird feeding. Your safety and the health of birds and wildlife are our primary concern.

We are actively connected with the proper wild bird and health experts to keep our customers informed of any developments that could affect safe backyard bird feeding practices.

What is Avian Flu?

  • Avian influenza refers to the infection of birds with avian influenza Type A viruses. These viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds worldwide such as ducks, geese and shorebirds.
  • The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the Public Health Agency of Canada currently deem this outbreak to be of low human health risk.
  • No human avian flu infections have occurred in North America as a result of the current outbreak in wild birds or domestic poultry.
  • In other countries that experienced past avian flu outbreaks, wild birds have not played a role in the transmission of the disease to humans. Human infections with other avian influenza viruses have only occurred after close and prolonged contacts with infected poultry or the excretions/secretions of infected poultry.

Is it Still Safe to Feed the Birds?

  • There is no need to stop watching, feeding or attracting birds to your yard because of avian flu.
  • There is no evidence humans are at risk of contracting avian flu from backyard birds or bird feeding.
  • The backyard birds that visit our feeders appear to be significantly less susceptible and much less likely to become a source for the virus.
  • As with any bird or animal, wild or domestic, it is always prudent to take sensible precautions after direct or indirect contact. Be careful around animal droppings or water used by birds and animals; wash your hands after contact with soap and water.
  • It’s always a good idea to practice responsible bird feeding on a regular basis. Clean and sanitize all bird feeders, bird baths and hardware with a 10% bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water). Rinse thoroughly and allow to completely dry before refilling feeders and baths.

Wild Bird Feeding Institute Bird Flu Update February 2022
February 2022 Bird Flu Update, Article from the Wild Bird Feeding Institute