Many of you have inquired of Chicago Audubon regarding the concern over the 2022 Avian Flu issue. We share here the expert advice of the IDNR (Illinois Department of Natural Resources) on the best way for individuals to protect the bird population in this circumstance.

IDNR advises use of backyard bird feeders, bird baths may resume. Feeding ducks, geese should be avoided, however.

Bird lovers may resume using backyard feeders and baths effective Wednesday, June 1, 2022, wildlife biologists at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) advised. IDNR originally recommended the use of bird feeders and bird baths be suspended through May 31 in response to the EA H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Illinois.

With the annual spring migration of non-resident waterfowl and other migratory bird species complete, the risk of further disease outbreaks among wild bird populations has been minimized. To date, HPAI has not been detected in songbird species. IDNR continues to encourage regular cleaning of bird feeders and bird baths. People who keep domestic poultry should remain extra vigilant. Further guidance for poultry owners can be found at the following USDA website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-home/hpai

And because HPAI may still occur in resident waterfowl, people should avoid feeding ducks and geese. Even under normal conditions, feeding waterfowl can lead to nuisance problems and, consequently, increase rates of disease transmission in wild bird populations.

Read the entire IDNR recommendation here: IDNR Guidlines on Backyard Feeders