Bird Flu

[roseydv]

I live in California and reports of bird flu are concerning. I live on the central coast, bird flu reporting has been in central coast valley. My small flock is so far healthy. But wild birds are all around and they free range. I get reports of outbreaks but not information on how I can fight it Is there a spray or something I can do to prevent infection?

Thanks
Judy

 

[AGeese]

I live in California and reports of bird flu are concerning. I live on the central coast, bird flu reporting has been in central coast valley. My small flock is so far healthy. But wild birds are all around and they free range. I get reports of outbreaks but not information on how I can fight it Is there a spray or something I can do to prevent infection?

Thanks
Judy

Not much you can do about wild birds if you free range. Do you have an acreage or live in a neighborhood? My bet is many of the wild birds are going to live in your area. If you're in a neighborhood, where other people keep chickens that might be something to keep in mind as far as biosecurity practices go.

On the other hand your birds being free range have been exposed to more than those that haven't, and hopefully therefore have stronger immune systems. I personally wouldn't worry about it, other than to be careful with having visitors over from where these reports are or with others who have nearby birds or flocks.

Also if you're not selling birds, then you don't really have to be concerned with testing for it, it really depends on whether these are pets or not. If you take one to the vet if it gets sick and they test positive, they may recommend you destroy your whole flock, and if they're required to report it to the state they might do it for you.

I would just keep things clean as possible, remove any bird nests near your chickens, stop feeding any wild birds (if you do.) The sparrows are going to eat the chicken feed, and drink their water. No way around that, the house sparrows I have stay year around, and raise generations in the same place.

 

[roseydv]

Thank you I agree with your advice.