Avian Bird Flu Not a Danger for North American Bird Watchers
Because of recent media attention surrounding avian flu, the Wild Bird Feeding Industry has received numerous inquiries from people who are worried about the possible danger of avian flu in the United States. Currently, Avian Flu is not a danger for people who watch or feed birds in North America.
CONCORD, NH (PRWEB) November 3, 2005
Duncraft Inc., the catalog for wild bird and nature enthusiasts, is extremely concerned about the health and safety of our wild bird and the human population. Sharon Dunn, president of Duncraft, recently addressed this issue with her staff in order to separate fact from fiction. The information Dunn gathered from speaking with her contacts at the WBFI (Wild Bird Feeding Industry) and from reading recently published materials by the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology is reassuring to her staff and customers. Read Duncraft’s official statement at http://www. duncraft. com (http://www. duncraft. com).
Since January 2004, the known human cases of avian flu have all occurred in Southeast Asia. Almost all of these infections were contracted by people who handle chickens. The Wild Bird Feeding Industry recognizes consumers may be concerned about the possibility of contracting H5N1 from their backyard feeders. “Human infections have occurred in people who have been closely associated with infected poultry. Not the wild birds at the feeder,” noted Susan Hays, Executive Director of the WBFI. “There is an overwhelming amount of information available on the web, and it’s good that consumers stay informed,” Steve Runnels, President/CEO of the American Birding Association stated. “This is becoming a conservation issue, and we encourage consumers here in North America to continue to feed their backyard birds.” Wild birds accustomed to finding their favorite seed at the feeder need not be disappointed, especially with the onset of winter weather.
“Base your feeding decisions on facts, not fears,” said Tom Franklin, Conservation Director with the Izaak Walton League of America. “Outdoor enthusiasts and bird feeders should continue to enjoy their activities. But remember to use common sense. Cleanliness and sanitation should be maintained at all times, whether you’re a feeder or outdoor sportsman.” Duncraft carries a full line of products for to keep your feeders clean and seed fresh. “Our Feeder Cleaner is a convenient ready-made solution to simply spray on, wipe and rinse off,” says Sharon Dunn. “And our customers are very satisfied with our new Feeder Fresh™! This granular substance is poured into the bottom of a tube feeder and works to absorb excess moisture— seed stays fresh and dry. No more clumping and unhealthy moldy build up.” Both products can be purchased at http//:www. duncraft. com.
About Duncraft
Duncraft, Inc., located in Concord, NH, was founded in 1952. Today, the company manufactures Duncraft-brand bird feeders, mails the Duncraft Living with Nature Catalog nationwide and its www. duncraft. com website offers hundreds of the very best wild bird and nature-related gifts, birdfeeders, bird foods, exclusive pet items, backyard pest solutions and garden décor.
