Oklahomans Raising Their Own Chickens Be Aware of Highly Contagious Bird Flu

Two separate cases of the bird flu were found recently in Grady and Woodward Counties in Oklahoma. The incident is being watched closely, as it could have a negative impact on poultry all across the state. So, when deciding if you're wanting to raise your own flocks, be aware of the risks that may be present, at least until the summer.

Two separate cases of the bird flu found in two home-raised flocks in Oklahoma.

Approximately 170 birds were culled recently due to the highly pathogenic Avian Influenza being found in two separate backyard flocks in Oklahoma. Both flocks had an assortment of chickens, ducks, guineas and one flock had peafowl, according to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture.

Now that they've been culled, the disinfecting process has started and the owners will not be allowed to bring poultry back to the area for another 120 days. During that time, there cannot be any other animals in the area to insure that the bird flu isn't brought back.

Oklahoma Department of Agriculture urges poultry owners to 'protect their birds.'

Although Oklahoma State University Veterinarian Rod Hall said that they know the bird flu is present, and that the reports were not unexpected, he did acknowledge that bird owners need to be diligent during this time of year. "I expect we'll continue to see cases right on through until it really gets hot this summer,” he said.

Professionals know that the virus is still present in wild birds and owners should be diligent about limiting their flock's contact with them. In the aforementioned incidents, the backyard flocks were sharing water with wild fowl.

New chicken owners beware of mistakes that may cause you to lose your flock.

Since the only incidents of bird flu being found in Oklahoma were in reference to backyard bred animals and not commercial flocks, new chicken owners may need to know a few things about protecting their animals before purchasing.

• Clean & disinfect bird living areas regularly
• Don't share equipment with other areas
• Disinfect equipment, clothing and other parts that may transmit the disease

The Department of Agriculture has provided a variety of resources for those who want to know how to prevent the disease from spreading. Click here to read more.