Owls as Early Bird Flu Warning System

Minnesota’s raptor researchers are using baby owls and eagles as early flu sentinels—testing over 5,000 birds since 2022, with 270 positive cases. This vital surveillance caught a bald eagle infection two weeks before it hit turkey farms, giving farmers crucial time to boost biosecurity. While raptors may be building some resistance, bird flu is likely here to stay—endemic and unpredictable. With the state losing over 10 million commercial birds since 2022, ongoing monitoring of live and deceased raptors is key to protecting both farms and public health. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/580c2d35f3a2d59d