Zoos in North America Now Placing Birds, Indoors To Avoid Avian Flu Outbreak.<br />NPR reports many zoos in North America are <br />moving birds inside to protect them from <br />avian influenza that is sweeping the continent.<br />As the virus continues its spread <br />across the United States, almost<br />23 million chickens and turkeys have <br />been euthanized so far to contain it.<br />As the virus continues its spread <br />across the United States, almost<br />23 million chickens and turkeys have <br />been euthanized so far to contain it.<br />Experts say zoos have moved birds <br />inside to avoid the unnecessary <br />killing of endangered or threatened <br />species in their care.<br />It would be extremely devastating. , Maria Franke, manager of welfare science at Toronto Zoo, via NPR.<br />We take amazing care and the welfare and well-being of our animals is of the utmost importance. , Maria Franke, manager of welfare science at Toronto Zoo, via NPR.<br />There's a lot of staff that <br />has close connections with the animals that they care for here at the zoo. , Maria Franke, manager of welfare science at Toronto Zoo, via NPR.<br />Experts say birds spread the virus <br />through nasal discharge and droppings. <br />It can contaminate clothing, <br />equipment and vehicles.<br />Researchers have found the virus <br />also spreads through small wild <br />birds, as well as mice.<br />Researchers have found the virus <br />also spreads through small wild <br />birds, as well as mice.<br />Thus far, no outbreaks have been <br />reported at any of the country's zoos, though officials say they're taking the necessary precautions.<br />Many birds are being kept in smaller <br />groups so that if a case is found, <br />fewer of them would be affected.<br />According to NPR, the USDA and <br />state veterinarians have the final say on whether birds should be euthanized to limit the spread of the virus.<br />Euthanasia is really the only way to keep it from spreading. , Luis Padilla, vice president of animal <br />collections at Saint Louis Zoo, via NPR.<br />That's why we have so many of these very proactive measures in place. , Luis Padilla, vice president of animal <br />collections at Saint Louis Zoo, via NPR
