Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo loses Flamingo and seal to bird flu

Avian flu has claimed the lives of a harbor seal and a Chilean flamingo at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo.

The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal.

“This is sad news for wildlife and for the zoo team. Not only are we facing the first known cases of HPAI in the animals in our care, but we have also lost two extraordinary animals,” said Director of Veterinary Services Lester E. Fisher and Dr. Kathryn Gamble in a statement. “Although highly pathogenic avian influenza is a naturally occurring virus in free-ranging waterfowl, more and more mammal species are believed to be susceptible to HPAI since 2022.”

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The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)

The zoo was unable to confirm the source of the exposure, but the Centers for Disease Control says HPAI is spread through the saliva, nasal secretions and feces of infected birds.

They said zoo visitors were not at risk of contracting the disease from Lincoln Park Zoo animals.

“Since highly pathogenic avian influenza is spread by free-ranging birds, it is no riskier to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo than to enjoy an outdoor walk,” said President and CEO and ornithologist Megan Ross. “The zoo remains a safe place to come into contact with the animals in our care.”

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The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)

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The zoo monitors HPAI, so a response plan is in place. The plan concerns staff and animals. It includes personal protective equipment and eliminates cross-contamination between species while monitoring individual animal behavior, according to a zoo release. They have also closed the McCormick Bird House and will remain closed until further notice.

The zoo announced that it had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)

The zoo also said in its statement that it is important to keep personal pets indoors and away from wildlife.

“Sharing this news of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the region is important for our community as a whole,” said Seth Magle, director of the Urban Wildlife Institute. “To protect yourself, do not handle wildlife. Additionally, keep your pets safe by keeping cats indoors and dogs on leashes, away from wildlife.”