From Auburn University Raptor Center
Have you noticed our rehab staff suited up in yellow gowns, face coverings, and bonnets in most of our posts? This isn’t a fashion statement - it’s PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), and it plays a critical role in keeping everyone safe.
We take maximum precautions with all newly admitted birds, especially right now. HPAI (High Path Avian Influenza) has been confirmed in Alabama and we are taking all precautions. Wearing PPE doesn’t just protect our team, it protects every bird in our care, including current patients, foster birds, and our beloved educational ambassadors (yes, even the War Eagle).
A quick reminder about HPAI: High Path Avian Influenza is a contagious virus that can affect both wild and domestic birds and mammals. If you come across a bird that appears sick, unusually quiet, or unable to fly, contact your closest licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance so the bird can receive proper care while minimizing the risk of spreading disease.
By suiting up, we’re making sure we can continue providing the highest standard of care while preventing the spread of potential diseases within the center. Thank you for supporting the work we do and helping us keep our patients and our community safe.
My spot has said they want to start taking in waterfowl again this year, so I’m curious what our protocol will be. Our snow geese were getting hit badly with the birdy flu.