Welcome to Butterfield Acres Farm! Calgary’s BEST Farmyard!
Avian Influenza FAQ & Updates
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Update
Last Updated: October 19 2025
- Why We’re Temporarily Closed
Butterfield Acres has had 2 confirmed cases of avian influenza in some of our birds. Out of an abundance of caution and in alignment with veterinary and public-health guidance, we have temporarily closed the farm to protect the health and safety of all animals and visitors.
- How This Happens
Avian influenza is a naturally occurring virus in wild migratory waterfowl, which can occasionally spread to domestic flocks or other birds through contact with droppings or contaminated environments. It is possible to contract it other ways as well, e.g., thru feed sources.
Despite year-round biosecurity protocols, Alberta is currently seeing increased avian influenza activity linked to seasonal migration.
- What We’re Doing
Our team is working under the guidance of CFIA (their staff has been very helpful and has provided excellent guidance), and Primary Care Alberta (formely Alberta Health) who have been compassionate and professional in getting us through this safely.
- Risk to Humans and Pets
Current evidence shows the risk of avian influenza to the public and to pets is very low.
Transmission is primarily between birds, and there are no confirmed cases of person-to-person spread.
- How You Can Help – this is a great opportunity to learn some smart strategies…
You can play a role in keeping local birds safe:
Avoid visiting farms or wildlife areas if you’ve recently been around poultry or waterfowl
Clean and disinfect footwear after outdoor activities where there may be bird feces
Do not bring poultry, eggs, or feed onto one farm from another farm
Report any sick or dead wild birds to the CFIA or Alberta Fish and Wildlife
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is avian influenza?Avian influenza (AI), or “bird flu,” is a Type A influenza virus that affects many species of birds and, rarely, some mammals.Q2. Is Butterfield Acres’ closure permanent?No. The closure is temporary and precautionary. We’ll reopen as soon as it’s approved by authorities.
Q3. How common is this?
Avian Influenza is found worldwide, and cases in wild birds are periodically detected in Alberta, particularly during migration seasons.
Q4. Can people get bird flu from visiting the farm?
Even in open settings, the risk to people is extremely low. The farm is closed to prevent any risk of exposure.
Q5. Are any other animals affected?
Only a small number of birds have tested positive. Other animals remain under observation and show no signs of illness.
Q6. How will I know when you reopen?
We’ll post updates on our website and social media channels. You can also subscribe to our email newsletter for notifications.
- Official Information SourcesCanadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA): inspection.canada.ca/avian-influenzaGovernment of Alberta – Avian Influenza Updates: alberta.ca/avian-influenza-in-birds.aspx
We’re so happy to see “ewe”!
We look forward to sharing all our latest animal farm happenings!
Hogs and kisses x