In Montgomery County, Maryland, officials found bird flu in a backyard flock. The bird flu is very contagious and can make birds sick. They have to quarantine the area to stop the virus from spreading. The infected chickens won't be used for food. Bird flu can affect chickens, ducks, turkeys, and some wild birds. It spreads through secretions from the nose and eyes, and through poop. The virus can move between flocks in many ways, like by wild birds or on equipment. This is the first bird flu case in Maryland since 2023. A few farms in Maryland had bird flu in January. But don't worry, the risk of people catching bird flu is low. If you think your birds might have bird flu, look for signs of illness, like coughing or sneezing. Call the Maryland Department of Agriculture to report sick birds. You can also visit their website for more information on how to stay safe. It's important to keep an eye on your birds and make sure they stay healthy. Officials are working to stop the spread of bird flu and keep everyone safe. Let's remember to take care of our feathered friends and keep them healthy too!