Birds Are Heading South. Is HPAI Staying Behind?
Every fall, millions of migratory birds begin their journey south, filling Canadian skies and marking another change of season. From Canada geese gathering in fields to ducks resting along waterways, their annual migration is one of nature's most remarkable events.
Saturday, October 10, marks World Migratory Bird Day, a time to recognize these incredible travelers, and the important role they play in our environment.
But for Canadian poultry producers, fall migration also brings an important reminder: just because the birds are heading south doesn't mean the biosecurity risks are leaving with them.
Fall Migration: A Familiar Risk Returns
Earlier this spring, EthoGuard highlighted the risks associated with migratory birds returning to Canada and the potential spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Now, as birds make their return journey south, those same concerns deserve renewed attention.
Wild birds, particularly waterfowl such as ducks and geese, can carry avian influenza viruses. Infected birds may spread the virus through their droppings and other secretions, potentially contaminating fields, water sources, equipment and areas surrounding agricultural operations.
For poultry producers, this means exposure doesn't necessarily require direct contact between wild birds and their flocks.
Sometimes, the risk is much closer to the ground.
What's on Your Boots?
We've all experienced it. You're walking across the yard, through a field or across a parking lot when you notice Canada goose droppings.
Sometimes you manage to avoid them. Sometimes you don't.
But have you ever stopped to consider what could happen if contaminated material is carried into your barn?
Footwear, vehicle tires, tools and equipment can all become pathways for introducing pathogens into agricultural facilities.
Something as simple as walking through an area contaminated by wild bird droppings and then entering a poultry barn can create an unnecessary biosecurity risk.
It's a reminder that biosecurity doesn't begin at the barn door. It begins with every step you take.
Watch our short video, "What's on Your Boots?", to see why every step matters.
Fall Biosecurity: Don't Let Your Guard Down
With migratory birds on the move, now is an important time for poultry producers to review their everyday biosecurity practices.
A few simple reminders can make a difference:
Watch where you walk. Be aware of areas where wild birds gather and where droppings may be present.
Protect your barn entrances. Use dedicated barn footwear and clothing, and maintain appropriate cleaning and disinfection procedures.
Keep wild birds away. Protect feed and water sources and minimize opportunities for wild birds to access poultry areas.
Clean and disinfect. Maintain proper cleaning and disinfection protocols for footwear, equipment, vehicles and frequently used surfaces.
Stay alert. Monitor flock health and remain informed about HPAI developments in your area.
Protecting Canadian Agriculture, One Step at a Time
At EthoGuard, we believe effective biosecurity is built on awareness, preparation and consistent everyday practices.
From biosecurity equipment and disinfectants such as Prevail™ to practical solutions that help reduce the movement of contaminants, our goal is to support Canadian producers in protecting their operations.
World Migratory Bird Day is an opportunity to appreciate the remarkable journeys of wild birds while remembering the importance of protecting the animals in our care.
As the geese gather and the skies fill with migrating birds this fall, take a moment to look up and appreciate the season.
And before you head back into the barn, remember to look down.
Every Step Matters.
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