Avian influenza cases shutters popular petting farm in northwest Calgary

A Calgary petting farm has been ordered to temporarily close after cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, were reported.

Primary Care Alberta (PCA) was notified of nine poultry cases of HPAI at Butterfield Acres Petting Farm in Foothills County on Oct. 16, 2025. 

The popular petting farm had already voluntarily closed from Oct. 13 to 17, before Alberta Health Services (AHS) issued a formal closure on Oct. 17, 2025. Butterfield Acres will remain closed until public health inspectors and medical officers of health determine it’s safe for staff and visitors to return.

According to AHS, “While HPAI primarily affects birds, rare human infections have occurred through close contact with infected animals. The risk to the public remains low.”

Those who visited the petting zoo between Oct. 6 and Oct. 12, 2025 are being asked to monitor themselves for flu-like symptoms even if they feel well. AHS advises that anyone experiencing symptoms should isolate and contact Health Link at 811 for an assement and testing.

Symptoms of avian influenza can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include pink eye, fever, fatigue, muscle/body aches, headaches, sore throat, cough, stuffy or runny nose, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and shortness of breath. 

“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,” says the farm on its website.