Spring’s arrival in Alberta brings concerns for the poultry industry as migratory birds signal the potential spread of avian flu. Turkey farmer Scott Olson, based in the Wetaskiwin area, remains cautious following last year’s severe avian flu season. Olson, who has faced three outbreaks since 2022, emphasizes the need to avoid contact with migratory birds to prevent the transmission of the virus to his facility.
The impact of avian flu outbreaks has been substantial, with more than 2.5 million birds in Alberta and 17 million nationwide perishing since December 2021. The highly contagious disease, naturally carried by wild birds, spreads through saliva and excrement, posing a significant threat to poultry farms. To mitigate the risk, farmers like Olson implement strict biosecurity measures, including controlled access zones, thorough cleaning protocols, and limited farm access during migration seasons.
The surge in avian flu cases last year in Alberta, with 26 confirmed cases, was linked to wild bird migrations. The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation reported a notable increase from 2024, indicating a pattern of fluctuating case numbers in correlation with migratory bird activity. Although the commercial industry has adapted by enhancing biosecurity measures, vigilance remains crucial to prevent further outbreaks.
While Alberta has not reported any avian flu cases in 2026, Canada has confirmed nine cases nationwide, underscoring the ongoing threat. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) identified cases in British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Ontario this year, including infections in wildlife such as a skunk in Ontario and a bald eagle in British Columbia. Authorities emphasize the importance of heightened surveillance and biosecurity measures to safeguard domestic and wild bird populations against the spread of avian flu.