Whooping crane dies of avian flu

« Back to Veterinarian

Ducky, an endangered whooping crane, has died from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, marking the first such death in the species. The International Crane Foundation announced her passing, which represents a 1% decline in the eastern migratory population of fewer than 70 birds. Ducky was part of a breeding program and was set to be released into the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. Diana Boon, the foundation's director of conservation medicine, speculated that Ducky may have contracted the virus from an infected bird or contaminated environment. Staff are taking precautions to protect the remaining cranes, but none have shown symptoms so far.


Read more here.