Protect your flock from bird flu

Avian influenza, known as “bird flu,” is a viral infection that spreads easily and quickly among birds. Parts of North America, Europe, Asia and Africa are currently seeing bird flu outbreaks.

Your backyard chickens and pet birds could be at risk of catching bird flu when wild birds migrate to and through Canada in the spring and fall months, as wild birds naturally carry influenza viruses.

Now is the time to review your preventative measures to keep your animals healthy, especially if you have a chicken coop or keep pet birds outside. Simple, inexpensive practices can be very effective at keeping these serious diseases away from your birds.

How your flock can get sick Signs of bird flu How to avoid bird flu and
protect your flock from disease If you think your birds are infected If you spot a sick or dead wild bird Additional
information

How your flock can get sick

Bird flu can be carried by wild birds. Wild birds such as ducks and geese can carry diseases, including bird flu, without looking sick. If these birds come in direct or close contact with your chickens or pet birds, in particular if they have access to the outdoors and ponds or bodies of water, the disease can be passed onto them. There is no treatment for birds that become infected with the disease.

Chickens and hobby flocks as pet birds can also be infected. On rare occasions, some subtypes of the virus can cause illness in humans. Health Canada has more information about human health issues related to bird flu.

Learn more about bird flu and pets.

Signs of bird flu

Infected birds may show one or many of these signs:

lack of energy, movement or appetite
decreased egg production
swelling around the head, neck and eyes
coughing, gasping for air or sneezing
nervous signs, tremors or lack of coordination
diarrhea
sudden death

Learn more about bird flu.

How to avoid bird flu and protect your flock from disease

You can help protect your birds by following these 5 basic rules:

prevent contact with wild birds and other animals
frequently clean poultry coops, waterers, feeders, your clothing and your boots
spot the signs and report early
limit exposure to visitors
keep new birds separate when entering your flock

Learn more about preventing and detecting bird flu in backyard flocks and pet birds.

If you think your birds are infected

Bird owners are legally responsible to notify authorities of serious bird diseases such as bird flu. Call a veterinarian or your nearest Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Animal Health office if you suspect your birds have bird flu.

Find out what to expect if your animals are infected.

If you spot a sick or dead wild bird

Anyone who finds a sick or dead wild bird is encouraged to contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC).

Be prepared to submit details like where you found the bird or discuss options for carcass submission to allow them to gather information about the health of wild populations.

Report sick or dead wild birds to CWHC.