Avian Flu, wild birds and birdfeeding

I have heard of people who have stopped feeding birds out of fear of the Avian Flu (also known as "Bird Flu"). Everything I have read indicates this is unnecessary as there is no reason to believe that the Avian Flu can be transmitted by birdfeeding. It is, however, recommended that people do not touch any wildlife and that people who feed birds should practice good hygiene which is common sense when touching items that have been in contact with excrement of any species.

There are special precautions for those who handle wild birds and other wildlife such as bird banders and hunters.

There is evidence that the Avian Flu has the potential to have a serious impact on some bird species as a deaths of a variety of birds have already been reported.

I believe that overreactions are due to a lack of knowledge about the Avian Flu. Please read the reports on Avian flu from the National Audubon Society, Bird Life International, and USGS

SeEtta