Denver Zoo loses two birds to Avian influenza, moves others to safe indoor areas
DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Denver Zoo announced two of its birds found dead tested positive for the highly pathogenic Avian influenza (HPAI), known as bird flu.
Monday, the Denver Zoo said the birds were a Brazilian teal and a Barrow's goldeneye. Samples taken by the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory tested presumptive positive for the disease. The United States Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory then confirmed the results.
Zoo officials said they are taking the highest level of safety protocols based on its comprehensive HPAI guidelines for control and prevention, including isolating any birds that could have been exposed to HPAI and taking safety measures for any staff members working with birds.
Bird keepers and veterinarians are keeping a close watch on all the birds in their care and monitoring any potential future cases of the virus.
Due to the risks some might face, the zoo has moved at-risk birds into safe indoor areas and made other changes to programming and experiences to ensure the animals' health and safety for at least 21 days.
Species that will not be in their outdoor habitats and viewable to guests during this period include African penguins, Humboldt penguins, lorikeets, cassowaries, cinereous vultures, sarus cranes, and ground hornbills.
All Up-Close Looks and educational experiences and programs involving birds have also been suspended.
The Denver Zoo said it's working closely with the USDA and Colorado Department of Agriculture to determine when it’s safe to return to normal operations.
According to the Colorado Department of Agriculture, HPAI has been detected in wild birds and domestic birds in Colorado since February 2022 and continues to pose a threat to bird populations.
Veterinarians and backyard, hobby, and commercial producers are asked to report any suspicious disease events in poultry flocks and collections to the State Veterinarian’s Office at 303-869-9130. More information about HPAI can be found here.
