Dead cotton patch goose tests positive for bird flu at Beardsley Zoo

In response, officials say they are working with state and federal partners and taking steps to ensure the health and safety of its birds, animals, staff and guests.

Rose Shannon and Nicole Alarcon

Jan 30, 2025, 6:43 PM

Updated 47 min ago

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Officials at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo said Thursday that a dead cotton patch goose preliminarily tested positive for bird flu.
In response, officials say they are working with state and federal partners and taking steps to ensure the health and safety of its birds, animals, staff and guests.
This includes temporarily closing the farmyard and outdoor aviary as access to birds is strictly limited to care providers, designated animal care specialists and veterinary staff. All volunteer activity and ambassador experiences with birds are canceled.
Zoo officials say birds in nearby exhibits including, ravens, peafowl, and turkeys were quarantined and did not have direct contact with the affected flock.
In an update, the Beardsley Zoo said birds placed in quarantine have tested negative for bird flu. Approximately 10 birds were tested.
The zoo said they will remain in quarantine in the farmyard out of caution, while care specialists continue to monitor their health.
In accordance with state and federal guidelines, the zoo says it has humanely euthanized the remaining affected birds in the pond community that may have been exposed to the bird flu in order to prevent possible spread.