A bird flu alert is being experienced in the Chicago region of the USA. Hundreds of ducks were found sick or dead on the shores of Lake Michigan. Experts warn that the virus could spread to other bird species.
A H5N1 bird flu panic is being experienced in the Chicago region of the USA. Hundreds of ducks were found sick or dead on the shores of Lake Michigan. Authorities warn that the outbreak could affect more species.
Chicago Bird Collision Monitors (CBCM) officials stated that the bird flu outbreak threatens bird life in the region. The organization’s director, Annette Prince, said they have received reports of sick or dead ducks from Hyde Park to Wilmette in recent days. The species most affected: Red-breasted coral petrels, which winter in the Great Lakes region, have washed up on the shores of Lake Michigan in flocks. COULD IT SPREAD TO OTHER SPECIES?
There are concerns that bird flu, which initially spread among waterfowl, could spread to other bird species such as hawks, owls and crows. Seagulls and other birds that hang around dead birds are particularly at risk of catching the virus. Lincoln Park Zoo announced that a flamingo and a harbor seal have died from the H5N1 virus. The zoo’s bird house was closed following the incident. POULTRY INDUSTRY ALSO HIT
Bird flu affects not only wild birds but also poultry. More than 150 million chickens and turkeys have been infected with the virus in the United States. The Kakadoodle farm near Chicago lost a flock of 3,000 chickens. COLD WEATHER FACILITATES SPREAD
The bird flu virus can survive longer in cold weather. However, experts predict that the virus will lose its effectiveness as temperatures rise in the spring.
Authorities are stressing that measures must be increased to prevent further spread of bird flu. Zoos and bird protection organizations are responding quickly to reports of infected birds.
