In a new flyer on biosecurity, the USDA tells poultry producers, “The addition of simple wildlife management practices around your farm” can enhance the biosecurity shield against avian influenza. By preventing wildlife from entering poultry barns or congregating near them, “you prevent wild birds and other wildlife from coming into direct contact with your poultry, as well as wild bird fecal material and secretions from being accidentally transported on boots, equipment and food to your birds.”
A preliminary USDA report says biosecurity lapses as well as environmental factors contributed to the worst bird-flu epidemic in U.S. history. Authorities say the virus was carried by migratory waterfowl and spread through their droppings.
The USDA’s running tally says 48.1 million fowl, mostly laying hens and turkeys, were lost in 223 outbreaks in domesticated flocks. The last confirmed outbreak was June 17. Officials say they are preparing for a potential new wave of bird flu when then fall migration begins.
For wildlife management, the department recommends landscaping to prevent water from pooling near poultry barns and prompt clean-up of spilled feed: “Do not use untreated surface water for watering poultry or cleaning poultry barns or other facilities as it may be contaminated. Workers should avoid walking or moving equipment in or near standing water used by wildlife.” It also recommends decoys to scare away wildlife and the use of exclusionary screens and bird spikes.