Confirmed avian flu case at Woodland Park Zoo means immediate safety precautions are in effect to protect our birds
Posted by Woodland Park Zoo Communications Staff Woodland Park Zoo is home to a flock of red-breasted geese as well as many other species of birds. Photo: Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren/Woodland Park Zoo A red-breasted goose at Woodland Park Zoo has died and is the first suspected case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) at the zoo. The goose passed away earlier this week and the zoo received preliminary positive HPAI test results today, Nov. 14. Health and safety precautions had already been enacted at the zoo in response to increased HPAI cases being reported across the state and region. For the wellbeing of our animals, staff and guests, additional and increased measures will be implemented immediately. Background HPAI, or highly pathogenic avian influenza, is a viral infection that is carried by wild birds, especially mallards and other waterfowl, and is spread primarily through respiratory secretions and bird-to-bird contact. In addition to posing a threat to birds, HPAI can also