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Bird flu continues to affect animal species everywhere, including a Chilean flamingo and a harbor seal at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. Both animals died of the avian flu last week, and many staffers and volunteers were devastated to have lost them. The flamingo was named Teal, and the harbor seal was named Slater. Unfortunately, Slater and Teal became the first Lincoln Park Zoo animals ever to contract bird flu. Officials are unsure how the animals contracted the flu and continue investigating its source.
Bird flu has made several headlines recently following the recall of pet food that killed a cat due to avian flu contamination. Moreover, bird flu has negatively affected many livestock and cattle along the West Coast, especially in California. Though rare, humans can contract bird flu. Last week, the first human bird flu death was reported in Louisiana. Pet owners and animal keepers should be aware of the risks of bird flu and its symptoms.
