Marine Science Center reopens bird hospital

All new birds will be screened for symptoms of the avian flu before entering the bird hospital.

By Pat Kuehn, Volusia County Community Information
| 12:00 p.m. March 26, 2023

The Marine Science Center. Photo courtesy of Google Maps

Ormond Beach Observer

With a better understanding of the avian flu and protocols to increase the safety of native birds and staff, the Marine Science Center has reopened its bird hospital and resumed admission of sick and injured birds.

Staff is available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week to accept bird patients at the bird hospital, located at 4965 S. Peninsula Drive in Ponce Inlet.

“The Marine Science Center Bird Hospital is a crucial resource for the community and its native wild birds,” Bird Hospital Manager Tracy Dawson said. “With the reopening, we are once again able to provide expert care for sick and injured wild birds.”

All new birds will be screened for symptoms of the avian flu before entering the bird hospital and will undergo a quarantine period before being released into the flight enclosure. This measure will help prevent the spread of disease and ensure that the birds are healthy and fit for release.

The bird hospital had been closed since February 2022. During the closure, staff completed several construction projects, providing the bird hospital with easy-to-disinfect surfaces, including nonporous flooring and scrubbable ceiling tiles. Staff has undergone in-depth training on biosecurity protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment, to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.