Officials with the Sedgwick County Zoo announced on Tuesday, Oct. 25th, that is would be closing the zoo’s bird exhibits until further notice.
This as cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (or HPAI) have been more frequent, with one positive case being reported in Hutchinson. The zoonotic disease has primarily been reported in cases involving migratory waterfowl.
The Sedgwick County Zoo has once again implemented its HPAI action plan in order to protect the health of animals, humans, as well as its business operations. The plan was also implemented earlier this year during the spring migration season due to a case in Central Kansas.
Many of the zoo’s birds have been moved to indoor habitats, while others have received habitat modifications to prevent contact with wild birds. Animal care staff will use personal protective equipment while caring for them.
Additionally, the Zoo has halted the sale of fish food available to guests in an effort to encourage wild waterfowl to forage elsewhere. Penguin Encounters will be on hold as well until the threat has passed.
