No More Popcorn Sold At Popcorn Park Zoo Due To Avian Flu Outbreak

LACEY, NJ — An outbreak of avian flu at Lacey's Popcorn Park Animal Refuge has lead to dozens of birds being euthanized and major changes coming to the zoo, park officials shared on social media.

"We are heartbroken by this outcome and know you are too," Popcorn Park staff wrote in an update posted Oct. 25.

Late last week, a deceased duck and goose tested positive for avian flu. Read More: Avian Flu Discovered At Popcorn Park Refuge In Lacey

An investigation by the USDA and State Department of Agriculture determined that 80 of the refuge's chickens, ducks and domestic geese needed to be euthanized to prevent further spread of the disease, staff said.

"Out of an abundance of caution, we are remaining closed the rest of the week to sanitize and implement bio security measures within our park, as well as to give our team time to grieve," staff said.

When the park reopens on Oct. 29, prepare for some major changes.

Guests will no longer be able to purchase popcorn and peanuts, staff said. Foot bathmats will be stationed as people enter and exit the ticket booth, and hand sanitizing stations will be placed throughout the facility.

Refuge staff elaborated in a comment on Facebook that the measures would be for the foreseeable future as the park tries to lessen the number of wild birds that fly in to protect the refuge's birds.

The risk of human infection is extremely rare, staff said, and future visitors should not be concerned.

"We thank you for your understanding as we work to ensure the health and safety of both our animals and visitors," Popcorn Park staff said.