It’s time to remove feeders, clean bird baths as avian flu spreads through Illinois
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources recommends ceasing use of bird feeders and bird baths through May 31, or until bird flu infections subside in the Midwest.
The agency also recommends cleaning and rinsing bird feeders and baths with a nine-parts water, one-part bleach solution.
IDNR released the recommendations in response to the EA strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, affecting some species of wild and domestic birds in the state.
You should put your feeder or bath away if you can, but if you can’t remove them, you should clean them weekly and remove any seed at the base of feeders to discourage large gatherings of birds. Additionally, avoid feeding wild birds near domestic flocks.
HPAI has not been detected in songbirds yet, but the state agency recommends the removal of bird baths and feeders to prevent the spread. Wild birds will have ample food resources in the spring even without the feeders, according to a press release.
Bird flu detected in Illinois
Bird flu was first identified by IDNR in wild Canada geese in Illinois March 10. Wild bird mortality due to bird flu has been confirmed in Champaign, Fulton, Sangamon and Will counties. A mortality event involving 200 birds in Cook County is suspected to have been caused by bird flu.
April 5, the Illinois Department of Agriculture filed an emergency motion to prohibit the sale or exhibition of poultry and poultry products at swap meets, exhibitions, flea markets and auctions in the state to mitigate the spread of avian influenza.
The emergency rules are in effect for 150 days from April 5, though the agency can review the regulations after 45 days to determine whether they are still necessary.
How can I report suspected cases of bird flu in Illinois?
If you find five or more deceased birds in one location, contact an IDNR wildlife biologist. Ben Funk is St. Clair County’s contact, and he can be reached at 618-931-0208 or by email at ben.funk@illinois.gov. Contact information for wildlife biologists in other areas is available online.
All occurrences of sick or deceased bald eagles should also be reported to IDNR.
If you must dispose of a deceased bird, wear rubber gloves and a mask and double-bag the carcass in sealed plastic bags. Thoroughly wash your hands, clothes and tools with soap and water following disposal.
Another step you can take to fight bird flu is review your biosecurity plans if you own birds.
This story was originally published April 22, 2022 at 10:35 AM.
