Omaha zoo reopens two exhibits after no further cases of bird flu

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium announced Monday that the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle would reopen after no further cases of bird flu were reported.

On Oct. 13 and 14, two pink-backed pelicans died of bird flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), on zoo grounds.

Four other pink-backed pelicans at the zoo tested negative for bird flu and are in good health, officials say.

Lee G. Simmons Aviary will remain closed as the zoo goes to the next phase of its prevention and response plan.

The aviary will stay closed until the zoo moves down to response level two.

Veterinary staff has tested other birds inside the Simmons Aviary and the Madagascar exhibit for bird flu.

Those test results came back negative, according to officials.

To prevent wild waterfowl from getting into the zoo, staff placed two inflatable tube men “strategically” to deter wild geese and ducks.

Officials say the tube men’s “erratic arm movements” scare the birds from landing.

Other precautions include staff washing walkways to remove any waterfowl fecal matter and moving some birds to off-exhibit holding areas.

“Our number one priority is always to protect our birds and guard against any potential spread of Avian influenza,” said Dr. Sarah Woodhouse, the zoo’s director of animal health.

SEE ALSO: Lincoln Children’s Zoo closes multiple exhibits to prevent spread of bird flu