Bird Flu Spreads Among Raptors, Threatening Minnesota's Poultry Industry

The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota has been testing birds for avian influenza since 2022. Over 5,000 birds have undergone testing, with 270 raptors confirmed positive for the virus. Testing is conducted on both live birds and euthanised raptors. Baby owls and baby eagles are among those found to carry the disease. A bald eagle tested positive for bird flu two weeks before the virus was detected in a turkey farm.

Research from the centre may provide an early warning system for poultry farmers. Evidence suggests raptors are gradually developing immunity to the virus. Minnesota, the top turkey-producing state, has lost more than 10 million commercial birds to avian influenza since 2022.

Experts believe bird flu is now likely endemic. This presents a long-term challenge for both wild and domestic bird populations. The Raptor Center’s work continues to monitor the spread of avian influenza. Its findings help track the virus and may reduce future outbreaks. The data also supports efforts to protect Minnesota’s poultry industry from further losses.