Chicago zoo sees ‘beloved’ seal and baby flamingo die from bird flu as virus mutates
Chicago zoo sees ‘beloved’ seal and baby flamingo die from bird flu as virus mutates
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Teal the Chilean flamingo had just been born last fall and Slater the harbor seal was often seen training with keepers. A beloved seven-year-old harbor seal named “Slater” and a baby Chilean flamingo named “Teal” died last week from bird flu, the Lincoln Park Zoo reported Tuesday.
![[Teal the Chilean flamingo hatched this past fall. She was just getting acquainted with her flock and keepers before she died last Wednesday]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/16/18/20240926_CBijalba_Flamingo-chicks_24.jpg)
While it remains unknown exactly how the animals were infected with the virus, the zoo said it was a near certainty that the cause was from contact with an infected waterfowl. The zoo stressed that its visitors are not at risk of contracting the virus from their animals. Staff had been monitoring bird flu reports and enacted a response plan, including adding protective equipment, removing opportunities for cross contamination and monitoring for animal health or behavior changes.
The zoo’s McCormick Bird House will be closed until further notice. “Because highly pathogenic avian influenza is spread by free-ranging birds, it is no riskier to visit Lincoln Park Zoo than to enjoy a walk outdoors,” said President and CEO Dr. Megan Ross assured. “The zoo remains a safe place to connect with the animals in our care.”.
The deaths come as concerns have flared regarding cases in humans across the country. There have been 67 confirmed reported human cases and one death associated with H5N1 bird flu infection. The Louisiana patient who died, the nation’s first severe case, was over the age of 65 and had underlying medical conditions.
