The outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Alberta birds necessitates that zoos implement protective measures to safeguard their avian populations from the virus. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) reported three instances of avian flu outbreaks in commercial poultry facilities in Alberta by May 24. According to the CFIA, the HPAI detections during the 2026 spring migration are consistent with previous years. The ongoing detections of HPAI in wild and domestic birds in Canada emphasize the importance of maintaining vigilance against HPAI and enforcing effective biosecurity protocols.
In Alberta, outbreaks were identified east of Edmonton, near Ribstone Creek in east-central Alberta on May 11, and northeast of Drumheller on May 16. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo expressed concern as avian flu was detected within 200 kilometers of their facility. Consequently, the zoo has initiated precautionary measures such as requiring guests to use foot baths at designated entrances and temporarily closing walk-in access to the Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary.
The Edmonton Valley Zoo is closely monitoring the situation east of Edmonton following an avian flu outbreak reported on May 11 in Strathcona County. The zoo mentioned that during periods of heightened risk, various precautions are taken to protect the bird population, including moving birds indoors or to protected outdoor habitats.
The Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation in Coaldale maintains strict protocols to prevent the spread of avian flu, ensuring that birds showing symptoms of the virus are not accepted into their facilities to avoid endangering other captive birds. The foundation’s managing director emphasized the risk of avian flu spreading among wild bird populations during migration periods.
A federal database tracking avian flu cases in wildlife across Canada recorded 12 cases in Alberta birds as of May 24, predominantly affecting Canada geese. Ontario has reported the majority of avian flu detections in wildlife, with 76 cases documented nationwide this year. Following last year’s severe avian flu season, the Alberta government is actively monitoring the situation in collaboration with the CFIA and industry stakeholders.
The CFIA confirmed 19 avian flu outbreaks in domestic bird flocks in Canada this year, with seven incidents in Saskatchewan, Alberta’s neighboring province. The public is advised to refrain from handling live or dead wild birds and report any sightings of deceased waterfowl or raptors. While certain bird species like songbirds and woodpeckers are less susceptible to avian flu, mammals such as skunks, seals, and cattle are at risk.
