Avian influenza, or “bird flu,” is a respiratory, and recently neurologic, disease of birds caused by influenza Type A viruses. A highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza is now causing illness among both domestic and wild birds across the United States. But what does this mean for bird enthusiasts with backyard feeders or bird baths? Are songbirds at risk? How can you protect pet backyard chickens and ducks? Are humans and other mammals at risk as well? What should you do if you find an injured or dead wild bird? On this show, Dr. Jim Wellehan and Dr. Amy Alexander, wildlife and zoological medicine specialists, will answer all your questions about bird flu, including why this recent strain is so dangerous, and what birds are most at risk.

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