Local
Positive avian flu test prompts temporary closures at Louisville Zoo
The Louisville Zoo is closing walk-through bird exhibits and some lake areas after a wild Canada goose on the grounds tested positive for avian influenza. The closures began Oct. 22 and are expected to last several weeks.
The Louisville Zoo began closing several bird exhibits and areas around its lake Thursday, Oct. 22, after a wild Canada goose on zoo grounds tested positive for avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu.
The temporary closures include the Forest Bird Trail, the African penguin exhibits in the Islands Pavilion, Steller’s Sea Eagle Aviary at Glacier Run and Lorikeet Landing in Australia. The zoo said the areas will remain closed for several weeks, until the threat has passed.
Zoo staff will monitor the animals in their care and wild birds on the grounds for signs of infection, while adjusting safety procedures as needed. Bird-care staff have added measures including disinfecting footwear before entering bird holding areas and increasing daily health checks and reporting.
Avian influenza is a viral disease that primarily affects wild and domestic birds and can sometimes spread to other animals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to people is very low.