Bird Flu and Backyard Flock Owners

Toolkit

Backyard Flocks Toolkit for Prevention and Control of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (PDF)

Backyard flocks include domestic birds such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, quail and guinea fowl. These birds are highly susceptible to bird flu. Backyard flock owners should learn about bird flu and take steps to protect their birds, themselves and their families.

Signs of Bird Flu in Domestic Birds

Signs of bird flu in domestic birds include decreased eating or drinking, reduced egg production, discharge from the eyes or nasal openings, and ruffled feathers. For a complete list of symptoms, see WSDA’s Avian Influenza.

Bird flu can be fatal in domestic birds and may kill them within a few days of infection. When it spreads within a flock, it can cause multiple deaths in a short period of time.

Protect Your Flock

Protect your flock by keeping them away from wild animals and their environments and discouraging wild animals from coming near your flock and home. The video below walks you through how to set up a safe and healthy environment for your backyard flock. See Backyard Poultry for more information.

Additional resource: Avian Influenza, WSDA

If You Suspect Bird Flu in Your Flock

Contact your veterinarian.
Report unusual death or illness in your flock to the WSDA Avian Health Program by calling 1-800-606-3056 or filling out the Domestic Sick Bird Reporting Form. Follow WSDA instructions before disposing of your birds.
Protect yourself and your family by learning the symptoms of bird flu in people and following guidance on using personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling sick or dead animals.