LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In an effort to protect its birds from the avian flu, the Louisville Zoo announced on Wednesday it temporarily closed down some areas. 

The zoo has temporarily closed its public walk-through aviaries and has moved some birds to protected areas. Until further notice areas closed to guests include the Forest Bird Trail and the African penguin exhibits in the Islands Pavilion, Steller’s Sea Eagle Aviary in Glacier Run, and Lorikeet Landing in Australia. Some of the birds that are being moved include Chilean flamingos, Dalmatian pelicans, black swans, and bald eagle.

The zoo said none of the birds are showing signs of the disease.

“As always, our highest priority is animal safety and welfare,” said Dan Maloney, executive director of the zoo. “By temporarily closing public access to the aviaries, and moving some birds to indoor areas, we will help ensure the birds’ health for as long as the situation requires. These measures are intended to expressly protect the Zoo birds. Zoo guests are not at risk. Your Zoo continues to be one of the safest places to visit anywhere.”

Officials recently confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in flocks out of Fayette County. The zoo said the disease can be contagious in birds and can affect several species, whether in backyard flocks and commercial flocks. Avian flu viruses can also be harbored in wild waterfowl and shorebird populations.