Wildlife biologists at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) have advised that bird lovers may resume using backyard feeders and baths effective Wednesday, June 1, 2022, Thank you everyone for your patience and cooperation.
The recommendation to suspended use of backyard bird feeders and baths through May 31 was issued in response to the occurrence of 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.
Remember: frequent cleaning of bird feeders and bird baths is very important. Remove old debris, scrub well in hot water and disinfect with a 10% bleach solution.
Please be aware that 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.