As a small, certified organic, regenerative farm here in Chisago County, we know how much our chickens mean to families across Minnesota. Many of you keep a handful of hens for fresh eggs, kids’ chores, or simply the joy of watching birds scratch in the yard. With ongoing cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Minnesota and across the U.S., it’s important to stay informed without being alarmed.
HPAI is a serious viral disease of poultry, introduced and spread largely by migrating wild waterfowl. Risk tends to increase during spring and fall migration, and both commercial and backyard flocks can be affected.
Backyard flock owners should know the key signs of possible avian influenza: birds that are suddenly very quiet or depressed, trouble breathing, sharp drops in feed or water intake, swollen or purple combs and wattles, a sudden decrease in egg production, or unexplained deaths. If you see any combination of these signs, call your poultry veterinarian right away. If you don’t have a vet, contact the Minnesota Avian Influenza Hotline at 1-833-454-0156 or use the online sick bird report form through the Minnesota Board of Animal Health.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Board of Animal Health emphasize that biosecurity is your best protection. Keep your birds separated from wild ducks and geese, especially around ponds and standing water; cover and contain feed; clean up spills that attract wildlife; limit or pause travel with your birds to shows and swaps; and limit visitors who come into direct contact with your flock, asking them to wear clean clothing and footwear.
Here at Wild Haven Farm, we take HPAI very seriously. We follow strict biosecurity, keep wild waterfowl away from our poultry areas, and monitor our flocks several times a day for any early signs of illness. Only healthy birds are in production, and our eggs are collected, handled, and stored with care—our eggs are safe.
HPAI is a challenge, but with good information and everyday precautions, backyard flocks can remain a healthy, joyful part of Minnesota farm and family life. If you have questions, reach out—neighbors helping neighbors is one of our strongest defenses against disease.
