The Bird Flu

          Recently a new outbreak has occurred across the state that could impact hunters, our economy, and forced the governor to declare a state of emergency here in Iowa. The avian influenza or the bird flu has recently made an attack on chicken and turkey farms across the state. According to experts up to 25% of the chicken population will be killed during this outbreak. This can also spread to wild turkeys, which is what relates to this subject. Thankfully, turkey flocks are usually spread out far enough so that the disease cannot have a widespread impact. Small numbers of birds are expected to contract the disease but it should be contained to small areas. According to the Des Moines Register, there is no health threat to humans but hunters are asked to keep an eye on wildlife for any sign of the spread of the disease. It is believed that the flu is spread by migratory birds flying up and down the Mississippi flyway. In my opinion it is everyone's responsibility to take any steps to prevent the spread of this disease if given the opportunity, at the same time nature will take its course.