Zoos in North America Now Placing Birds Indoors To Avoid Avian Flu Outbreak

Zoos in North America Now Placing Birds, Indoors To Avoid Avian Flu Outbreak.

NPR reports many zoos in North America are moving birds inside to protect them from avian influenza that is sweeping the continent.

As the virus continues its spread across the United States, almost 23 million chickens and turkeys have been euthanized so far to contain it.

As the virus continues its spread across the United States, almost 23 million chickens and turkeys have been euthanized so far to contain it.

Experts say zoos have moved birds inside to avoid the unnecessary killing of endangered or threatened species in their care.

It would be extremely devastating.

, Maria Franke, manager of welfare science at Toronto Zoo, via NPR.

We take amazing care and the welfare and well-being of our animals is of the utmost importance.

, Maria Franke, manager of welfare science at Toronto Zoo, via NPR.

There's a lot of staff that has close connections with the animals that they care for here at the zoo.

, Maria Franke, manager of welfare science at Toronto Zoo, via NPR.

Experts say birds spread the virus through nasal discharge and droppings.

It can contaminate clothing, equipment and vehicles.

Researchers have found the virus also spreads through small wild birds, as well as mice.

Researchers have found the virus also spreads through small wild birds, as well as mice.

Thus far, no outbreaks have been reported at any of the country's zoos, though officials say they're taking the necessary precautions.

Many birds are being kept in smaller groups so that if a case is found, fewer of them would be affected.

According to NPR, the USDA and state veterinarians have the final say on whether birds should be euthanized to limit the spread of the virus.

Euthanasia is really the only way to keep it from spreading.

, Luis Padilla, vice president of animal collections at Saint Louis Zoo, via NPR.

That's why we have so many of these very proactive measures in place.

, Luis Padilla, vice president of animal collections at Saint Louis Zoo, via NPR