Louisville Zoo implements precautionary measures to protect birds from avian influenza
October 22, 2026
CONTACT:
Kyle Shepherd; 502-744-5639; Kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
The Louisville Zoo is temporarily closing select bird areas as a precautionary measure after a wild Canada goose found sick on Zoo grounds tested positive for avian influenza. Confirmatory testing at a federal lab is pending. None of the Zoo’s birds are currently showing clinical signs of the disease. The Zoo remains open, with temporary closures limited to a handful of bird habitats.
Beginning today, public walk-through aviaries will be temporarily closed, including the Forest Bird Trail and African penguin exhibits in the Islands Pavilion, Steller’s Sea Eagle Aviary in Glacier Run, Lorikeet Landing in Australia, and some areas around the Zoo’s lake. These sections will remain closed for the next several weeks until the threat has subsided.
The Zoo will continue to closely monitor its birds, and wild birds on grounds, for signs of avian influenza while tracking developments and adjusting protocols as needed. Zookeepers who care for birds have also implemented additional biosecurity measures, including disinfection of footwear when entering bird holding areas and enhanced daily health monitoring and reporting.
“HPAI has been known in our region for the past few years and our animal care, veterinary and operations teams are trained and prepared to respond to emerging health concerns for the protection of our animals,” said Dan Maloney, Louisville Zoo director. “We are implementing these additional precautionary measures to further reduce risk to the animals in our care. These temporary closures allow us to take a careful and proactive approach while ensuring guests can continue to enjoy a safe visit to the Zoo.”
“We continuously monitor avian influenza activity in our region and have established measures to reduce potential exposure to Zoo animals,” said Dr. Zoli Gyimesi, Zoo senior veterinarian. “Taking these additional safeguards is the appropriate step to help protect the birds and other animals in our care.”
About avian influenza
Avian influenza, or Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, is a viral disease that primarily affects wild and domestic birds. It occurs naturally in wild bird populations and can spread to other birds and, occasionally, other animals. Wild waterfowl and shorebirds can carry avian influenza viruses.
Human risk
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently assesses the risk to the public as very low.
How guests can help
One of the easiest ways guests can help is by not feeding wild birds or other wildlife while visiting the Zoo. Feeding geese and ducks encourages them to congregate in areas used by guests and Zoo animals.
For FAQs, visit louisvillezoo.org/birdflu.
Zoo Hours
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through March 19, 2027, hours will be 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. with guest exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information on hours and admission.
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The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky and an agency of Louisville Metro Government, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) which is a global alliance of zoos and aquariums. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
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The Louisville Zoo is temporarily closing select bird areas as a precautionary measure after a wild Canada goose found sick on Zoo grounds tested positive for avian influenza.
louisvillezoo.org
