Puffins Fall Ill at Zoo | Seattle News

Seattle News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 16, 2026 · 1m

Three puffins at Point Defiance Zoo have died from a bacterial infection called psittacosis—also known as parrot fever—which can spread among birds and, rarely, to humans. The zoo is treating the rest of the colony with antibiotics and has temporarily closed the outdoor viewing area as a precaution, despite low risk due to good airflow. Visitors recently there are urged to watch for flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, and cough if exposed to dried bird droppings. More tests are pending, and staff are taking extra safety measures while the area gets deep cleaned before reopening. Listen in…