Avian flu discovery prompts Calgary Zoo to close some exhibits

The discovery of a highly pathogenic strain of avian flu near the Calgary Zoo has prompted the facility to take steps to protect its animals from the dangerous bacteria.

In a statement on social media, the zoo said the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian flu in close proximity to the zoo.

As a result, the zoo has decided to close some of its exhibits, move some animals indoors and restrict public access to parts of the zoo.

The Rainforest Aviary and the Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary have both been closed and where possible all birds have been moved indoors, which  means the public may not be able to see some of the animals.

The birds affected by the changes include whooping cranes, red-crowned cranes, peacocks, Chilean flamingoes, African grey-crowned cranes and greater rheas.

The zoo said it is also taking measures to protect its penguins by increasing disinfection on pathways and installing disinfecting mats at the entrance to the penguin plunge.

Despite the extra security measures, the zoo says the penguin plunge will be open as planned on Tuesday.

The CFIA describes Avian Flu, commonly known as “bird flu,” as a contagious viral infection that affects several species of food-producing birds, as well as pet birds, wild birds and mammals.

Most avian influenza viruses are low pathogenic and typically cause little or no signs of illness in infected birds.

However, highly pathogenic viruses can cause severe illness and death in birds and in rare cases can also infect humans when people have close contact with infected birds or their environments.

An outbreak of avian flu that killed 69 ostriches at a B.C. ostrich farm in late 2024 has also led to an ongoing tense standoff at the farm between the CFIA and the birds owners and supporters.

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