State recommends halt to use of bird feeders, bird baths through May to slow spread of avian influenza

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources issued recommendations to help slow the spread of avain influenza, or bird flu. They ask that the use of bird feeders and bird baths cease through May 31, or until infections in the Midwest subside, especially those that waterfowl may visit. During spring, wild birds will have ample food sources while bird feeders are removed. They also suggest you clean and rinse bird feeders and baths with a diluted bleach solution, or remove them entirely. You should also clean up any bird seed at the base of bird feeders to discourage large gatherings of birds or other wildlife. The Starved Rock bird feeding area will be taken down as a precaution. The IDNR also requests all occurrences of deceased or sick bald eagles be reported to the agency.