This is the time of year in which the birds come back to your home in droves. Many bird enthusiasts actively attract birds through the use of birdhouses, bird feeders, and bird-baths. With the growing threat of an avian flu (bird flu) pandemic, it is wise to consider the threat that wild birds may bring to your home. Are you at risk?

The United States is preparing for the eventual spread of the avian flu to this country and has an aggressive interagency detection program led by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The process is one in which large numbers (over 10,000) of living and expired birds, especially those near the coast, are tested for the virus. In addition, the USDA has a "Biosecurity for the Birds" program, which provides important information about reducing the probability of birds becoming infected with the avian flu. This program develops practical, common sense management practices to keep the avian flu and other poultry diseases out of our commercial and backyard flocks.

The good news is that up to this point, the avian flu has not been detected in the United States, although some predict that it is only a matter of time before it affects this country. The avian flu is carried primarily by waterfowl and shore birds but is also found in domestic poultry such as chickens. So far songbirds and your typical backyard birds such as hummingbirds, bluebirds, woodpeckers, purple martins, wrens, and many others remain unaffected.

The Department of Interior's National Wildlife Health Center has issued guidance to follow routine precautions when handling wild birds. This recommendation is not because of the bird flu but a general recommendation for reducing the threat of other bird viruses or diseases such as West Nile.

The Center recommends that people handling wild birds:
1) Do not handle birds that are obviously sick or birds found dead,
2) Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling (and cleaning) game, wash hands with soap and water (or with alcohol-based hand products if the hands are not visibly soiled), and thoroughly clean knives, equipment and surfaces that come in contact with game,
3) Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or cleaning birds.

The recommendation is that you should definitely keep attracting wild songbirds to your home through the use of nesting boxes or houses, bird feed and seed stations, and birdbaths. At this time, there is NO threat for the avian flu, especially in North American songbird populations. Monitor your local news service for updates on the spread of the avian flu and other related bird-born illnesses.