(Omaha, NE) -- Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is closing three attractions after a pink-backed pelican dies from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
"The major way that HPAI is transmitted is from the feces of infected wild birds. This can happen as wild birds fly overhead, or by someone stepping in infected wild bird feces and carrying the infection with them on their shoes," said Dr. Sarah Woodhouse, the Director of Animal Health for Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.
The zoo is closing the Simmons Aviary, Lied Jungle, and the Desert Dome starting Saturday, October 15th, 2022. The exhibits will be closed for at least 10 days.
"It is very important that Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium immediately tighten our protocols to protect our birds and guard against any potential spread of Avian influenza," said Dr. Woodhouse. "In addition to closing the Zoo’s bird areas, precautions have been put in place for staff including foot baths, limited access, and protective clothing."
The pelican died Thursday from the virus. A second pelican got sick and was euthanized Friday. Dr. Woodhouse said no other birds have shown any symptoms.