Bird flu outbreak kills big cats at shelter south of Seattle

The Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Shelton, Washington, has faced a devastating bird flu outbreak that has resulted in the deaths of 20 big cats, including a Bengal tiger and several cougars. After an initial report of an unknown illness on December 2, health officials confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza on December 6, prompting the shelter's closure. The staff is heartbroken over the rapid loss of these animals, which can contract the virus through infected birds or contaminated materials. The center is implementing strict biosecurity measures to contain the outbreak and protect the remaining wildlife. In a heartfelt announcement, the center detailed the specific cats that have died and emphasized the urgent need for community support to manage the financial strain caused by increased medical care costs.

As they focus on caring for the surviving animals, the sanctuary remains closed to the public to ensure the safety of both animals and visitors. This situation serves as a crucial reminder of the potential impact of avian influenza on wildlife populations, and community engagement will be vital as they navigate this tragic event and seek recovery.