SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/chick-wild-birds-carry

What bird flu risk can wild birds bring to your chickens?

Wild birds can carry bird flu without looking sick.

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  1. Wild birds always look sick before spreading bird flu
  2. Wild birds can carry bird flu without looking sick ✔
  3. Wild birds cannot spread bird flu to poultry

Why: Avian influenza can pass from wild birds to backyard flocks. Covering the run and keeping feed and water away from wild birds lowers the risk.

Huh, didn't know that: APHIS works with federal and state partners to test wild birds for avian influenza viruses.

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What do you call a bird that is afraid to fly? Chicken.
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References

Answer: Wild birds can carry bird flu without looking sick. Avian influenza can pass from wild birds to backyard flocks. Covering the run and keeping feed and water away from wild birds lowers the risk.

  1. Avian Influenza, USDA APHIS www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza
    Because wild birds can carry avian influenza and not appear sick, APHIS works with other Federal and State partners
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Defend the Flock, USDA APHIS www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/defend-the-flock
    Wild birds can also introduce disease to domestic flocks.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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