Avian flu has hit Sonoma County with an estimated 250,000 birds at two local farms are slated for culling. The farms, located in Petaluma, have been blindsided by the outbreak, impacting both chicken and duck operations.

Mike Weber of Sunrise Farms has lost over 80,000 chickens. “It’s just been devastating for us,” he told KTVU. At the adjacent Reichardt Duck Farm, 170,000 ducks are to be euthanized, a significant blow to supply. The San Francisco Chronicle has also reported cases in San Benito County, though the overall impact remains to be assessed.

Juliana Sorem, a veterinarian with the non-profit Wildcare, points to wild birds as carriers that disperse the virus, notably during migratory seasons. Excitement is brewing about a potentially protective vaccine for California condors, pending regulatory approval. Meanwhile, “the only way to really protect captive birds is to literally prevent all interaction with wild birds,” states Sorem, with the California Department of Food and Agriculture stressing the necessity for stronger biosecurity.

Intrigue surrounds the outbreak's timing, related to the sentencing of a Direct Action Everywhere activist. Weber, whose farm has been targeted by the group before, suspects foul play, an accusation the animal rights organization staunchly denies. With his farm's practices regularly inspected, Weber is focusing on fortifying his operations against the flu.

Experts are advising vigilance for signs of sickness in wildlife and have provided the State Bird Hotline at (866) 922-BIRD (2473) for reporting.