- Understanding the risks associated with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) at zoological institutions
- Protective measures implemented by The Saint Louis Zoo to combat HPAI during bird migration seasons
- Collaborative efforts with governmental bodies to monitor and respond to avian health threats
- The impact of HPAI on zoo operations, visitor experience, and conservation goals
- Communicating health and safety information to the public regarding HPAI and its implications
Avian influenza poses significant challenges to zoological institutions worldwide, particularly when it comes to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). At The Saint Louis Zoo, monitoring and managing this virus is especially critical during bird migration seasons. Migratory birds, which can carry the virus without exhibiting symptoms, often inadvertently introduce it to resident avian populations. The risk to zoo birds primarily arises from interactions with these wild birds. Consequently, understanding and mitigating these risks is crucial for protecting avian species under human care.
The Saint Louis Zoo has implemented a multi-pronged strategy to manage HPAI risks and safeguard their animal residents. One of the primary tactics is relocating susceptible bird species indoors. The zoo has temporarily closed several bird exhibits, such as the Cypress Swamp and Bird House, distancing vulnerable populations from potential carriers. Additionally, enhanced cleaning protocols are employed, especially at exhibits like the Penguin & Puffin Coast, which closes an hour early to facilitate thorough sanitation.
Collaborative, informed action is integral to The Saint Louis Zoo’s efforts in addressing HPAI outbreaks. The zoo is actively working with entities like the State Veterinarian, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Missouri Department of Conservation. Such collaborations ensure a coordinated response to avian health threats and provide the latest scientific insights into disease prevention and management.
The presence of HPAI has far-reaching implications beyond animal health, impacting everyday zoo operations and visitor interactions. For instance, as a precautionary measure, the zoo has temporarily ceased sales of certain Behind-the-Scenes Tours, to minimize potential human-animal contact during peak migratory periods. These operational changes, though temporary, highlight the dynamic nature of zoo management and the importance of flexibility in response strategies.
Communication with the public is a cornerstone of The Saint Louis Zoo’s HPAI strategy. By providing clear, factual updates, the zoo reassures visitors and emphasizes transparency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has assessed that HPAI poses minimal public health risk, a critical piece of information underscored to maintain visitor confidence. Effective public communication not only informs but also engages the audience, fostering a deeper understanding of conservation work and its challenges.
The management of HPAI at The Saint Louis Zoo is a complex endeavor, requiring careful planning and execution. Through a mix of preemptive actions, partnerships, and open communication, the zoo exemplifies a proactive approach to wildlife conservation in the face of avian influenza. This work underscores the commitment to protect animal welfare while continuing to educate and inspire the public on critical conservation issues.
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Source Description
The Saint Louis Zoo is monitoring the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus closely, especially during bird migration seasons. On your next visit, you may notice some of our birds have been temporarily moved indoors and a few bird exhibits are closed as a precaution against the HPAI virus.
This is an important and necessary step to ensure the safety of animals in our care. The primary risk to the birds at the Zoo would come from wild birds that land on Zoo grounds.
Last week, Zoo staff retrieved a deceased wild wood duck from a lake near the center of the Zoo. Preliminary tests indicate the bird was positive for Avian Influenza, which is not uncommon among migratory birds. The Zoo has sent samples for further testing to identify if this was a case of an HPAI strain. The Zoo also enacted a higher level of biosecurity to protect Zoo animals.
No birds or other animals under our care have been showing clinical signs or been diagnosed with this virus.
🔹While some Zoo birds are able to remain safely outside where their habitats provide protection, others have been moved indoors.
🔹The Cypress Swamp and Bird House will be closed to guests until further notice.
🔹Penguin & Puffin Coast will close an hour early each day, so that staff can complete deep cleaning of the public space.
🔹We are temporarily discontinuing sales for some of the Zoo’s Behind-the-Scenes Tours during migratory bird season.
🔹We hope to reopen all areas and return birds back outside as soon as it is safe to do so.
These measures, along with additional staff safety protocols, are in place to mitigate common areas of human and animal foot traffic.
The Zoo continues to prioritize the safety of the animals in our care. We are working collaboratively with the State Veterinarian, United States Department of Agriculture and Missouri Department of Conservation, and we are prepared to take additional steps as needed.
Please be assured that HPAI does not pose any immediate human health concerns at the Zoo. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the current public health risk to humans for HPAI to be low.
We appreciate your understanding.
