Sedgwick County Zoo closes bird exhibits due to avian flu - KWCH

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - The Sedgwick County Zoo confirmed a viral infection in a dead duck found on its grounds is prompting the facility to keep several of its animals out of the public eye, at least temporarily. The duck tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as "bird flu" a viral infection that occurs naturally in birds.

The Sedgwick County Zoo said wild birds can carry the virus but don't always get sick from it. It can be worse, often fatal for domesticated birds like chickens, ducks and turkeys.

"HPAI is a zoonotic disease that is carried by birds, mainly migratory waterfowl. While this particular strain is not believed to pose a high risk to human health, many zoo animals are susceptible to the disease. This includes all birds, some mammals, and possibly some reptiles," the Sedgwick County Zoo said.

To protect its birds, the zoo implemented what it calls its "HPAI action plan."

"This means that all of the zoo's bird exhibits will be closed to the public until further notice. Many birds have been moved to their 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 the birds at [the Sedgwick County Zoo]," the zoo confirmed.

The zoo also said it's halted selling fish food to guests, "an effort to encourage wild waterfowl to forage elsewhere."

Until the threat passes, Penguin Encounters at the Sedgwick County Zoo are also on hold.

The Sedgwick County Zoo has faced a similar situation before, including last fall and in March of 2022. You can revisit that coverage in the video above.

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