The bird flu outbreak that began in late 2021 has devastated poultry and dairy farms across the United States, driving up egg prices and infecting over 12,000 individual birds, according to the U.S. Agriculture Department. More than 170 species of wild birds — including ducks, geese, gulls, owls, and eagles — have been affected.

Which Wild Birds Are Affected?

Bird flu has been detected in dabbling ducks like mallards and blue-winged teal, which can carry the virus with minimal symptoms. However, they can shed the virus through their feces and saliva, spreading it to other birds and mammals such as foxes.

Bird Flu Symptoms in Wild Birds

Symptoms of bird flu in wild birds can vary but often include:

Lack of coordination
Inability to fly
Respiratory distress

“If people notice a wild bird acting strangely, they should contact their local wildlife rehabilitator and avoid handling the bird directly,” said Dr. Dana Franzen-Klein from the University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center.

Is It Safe to Use Backyard Bird Feeders?

Experts suggest that backyard bird feeders are generally safe and not a significant source of bird flu transmission. However, if you keep backyard chickens, it is best to take the feeder down to minimize any risk. Regularly cleaning bird feeders and nesting boxes is also recommended.

Impact on Endangered Bird Species

Critically endangered species like the California condor have been vaccinated after some birds became infected. However, vaccination is not feasible for most wild bird species.

Bald eagles, which are federally protected, also suffered significant losses, likely from scavenging infected animals. However, bald eagle populations are showing signs of recovery, with a record number migrating through northern Minnesota this past season.