Zoo aviary closes due to bacteria

The Birmingham Zoo’s Lorikeet Aviary is now temporarily closed after birds have tested positively for a bacterial disease.

Tests on the Zoo’s lorikeet collection indicate the presence of chlamydophila, often called psittacosis, a bacterial infection that can cause respiratory problems in birds and humans. This is the first known instance of this disease in the bird collection at the Birmingham Zoo. Over the next several weeks, the veterinary staff will pursue flock testing, observation and treatment.

Psittacosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be passed from birds to people. In people, psittacosis presents flu-like symptoms. The onset of illness typically follows an incubation period of 5-14 days, although longer periods have been reported. At this time, no Birmingham Zoo bird keepers, veterinary staff or employees have presented any symptoms. Psittacosis in both humans and birds is treated with antibiotics.

 “We routinely conduct health exams on the zoo’s animals so that we can be as proactive as possible about detecting the presence of disease among the zoo’s animals. After a lorikeet presented symptoms and tested positive, the exhibit was closed so the entire collection could be tested and treated as needed,” said Dr. Stephanie McCain, lead veterinarian at the Birmingham Zoo. “The veterinary staff is taking all measures to ensure the safety and health of the lorikeet collection and will continue to monitor any circumstances that may affect the Zoo’s animal collection or the guests.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, fewer than 50 confirmed cases in humans are reported in the United States annually. Waterfowl, herons and pigeons are the most commonly infected wild birds in North America.

For more information, contact the Jefferson County Department of Health at 933-9110.