National Zoo removing birds from display
July 1st, 2006
The Washington National Zoo has removed the ducks and chickens usually on display in the Kids’ section, both as a precaution against a possible bird flu infection and also to secure a degree of comfort among visitors. Other wild birds currently kept there, such as emus, vultures, shriekers and hummingbirds, were not targeted by this measure.
The highly pathogenic bird flu virus has not been yet found neither in Washington, nor in other states, however millions of birds have been killed in Asia and the disease is believed to be spreading fast.
Zoo officials declared the birds were relocated to its research center in Front Royal, Virginia and this action was only part of a number of safeguards put in place for the health of its bird collection. The establishment is also using a surveillance program and disinfectant foot baths for its workers.