Filling up the birdfeeders is a spring ritual for many people, but this year is different. Michigan residents are asked to consider putting away bird feeders out of an abundance of caution to stop the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or “Bird Flu”.
The deadly disease is making its way through both domestic and wild birds throughout the state. Waterfowl, raptors, and scavenger birds are highly susceptible and have been particularly affected by the disease, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
There is not a widespread recommendation yet, but those who generally get a lot of blue jays, crows, or ravens at their feeders, or who have poultry, raptors, or waterfowl in the area, should exercise caution when feeding birds. The birdfeeders could contribute to disease spread.
For those who choose to keep bird feeders up, the DNR recommends cleaning them with a diluted bleach solution once per week, cleaning up any fallen birdseed, and not feeding wild birds near domestic flocks, like backyard chickens.
The DNR also wants to know about any unusual bird deaths so they can closely monitor the spread of Avian Influenza.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
