In addition to the two deaths, Woodland Park Zoo says another four geese in the flock have tested positive for bird flu.
SEATTLE — Woodland Park Zoo is taking new steps to protect its birds from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) after two geese from the same flock recently died from the illness.
The first goose, named “HMB” for the “Husky Marching Band” due to his high-step walk, died on Nov. 14; test results later showed he tested positive for bird flu. A second goose, named Ketchup, also died from bird flu “around the same time,” the zoo announced on Tuesday.
The zoo said another four geese in the flock have tested positive for bird flu and seven have tested negative. As of Tuesday, all of the geese are in quarantine and under observation.
The zoo is moving flamingos and some crane species into protective housing to prevent contact with wild birds.
Geese who live at Woodland Park Zoo are part of a rare and threatened species
In response to the confirmed cases, the zoo previously said it is intensifying its biosecurity measures including canceling all bird-related guest experiences, private tours and penguin feeding. The walk-through aviaries will remain closed to the public, though the Tropical Rainforest exhibit remains open.
The impacted red-breasted goose and its flockmates will be moved to a quarantine area for up to 120 days, where they will be monitored closely by staff using personal protective equipment (PPE).
All planned transfers of birds in or out of the zoo have also been suspended.
KING 5’s Adel Toay contributed to this story.
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