I did an online training on avian flu in backyard duck flocks 3 weeks ago. it was really interesting and I learnt a lot. It was produced by an Agricultural Extension department but I cannot for the life of me recall where I found it and which state. Plus it was on my old computer and I am now using my new computer so I can't even find it through my web browser searches.
My take homes were:
(1) migratory birds -- particularly waterfowl -- carry the infection but often do not show symptoms
(2) local songbirds get infected, also without symptoms
(3) duck poop [and chicken poop] from infected fowl is incredibly infectious and is spread on shoes, shared equipment such as pet carrier, car tires etc.
(4) when there is avian flu in the USA and particularly if it is near where we are keeping back yard ducks, we have to keep our ducks from contact with wild birds. That's a problem for those of us with ponds that migratory ducks or geese drop in on; and keeping our ducks away from wild songbirds is also very difficult if we free range our ducks.
(5) symptoms sneezing running eyes and nares, loss of appetite, diarrhea: domestic ducks can sicken and die in as little as 4 days
(6) if there is a bird flu epidemic, we have to report sick birds to our state [I think but am not sure it is to the Department of Agriculture]
indianaducks asked about buying ducks from a hatchery. I don't think we can assume that ducks in hatcheries are not exposed because it was infected small birds like sparrows getting into commercial poultry coops that fueled the last big epidemic in many parts of the country. However, I think we can be certain that if there is an epidemic, hatcheries will be stopped by State and even Federal Departments of Agriculture from distributing ducklings if there is a risk of transmitting avian flu
I will try and find information on the training I did on my old computer and share it here if I find it.
