Local humane societies and animal refuges are ramping up their efforts to protect their wild birds, as the threat of avian flu increases.

The Newark Humane Society and Popcorn Park Zoo have stopped taking in birds due to health concerns. Popcorn Park officials say it wasn't an easy decision for them to make - but say it was necessary.

“It’s a really difficult decision. Personally, for me as a bird lover, you don’t want to turn any animal away, but unfortunately, you have to for the greater good,” said Danny Mendez, Popcorn Park's assistant director.

Popcorn Park Zoo has more than 125 birds on site. Officials say this is what they felt they needed to do to protect those birds. According to Mendez, the sanctuary typically takes in about 50 birds a month this time of year - birds suffering from injuries, like being hit by a car or flying into a door. The zoo takes in more than 100 birds per month during the warmer months.

The zoo has also implemented a number of safety measures since an infection occurred there nearly two years ago.

“We made sure we revamped all of our cages so wild birds can’t get into the cages and into the enclosures and affect our animals. Secondly, we are no longer taking in any birds. And thirdly, we’ve opted to reduce the number of birds that we have on our property,” said Mendez.

Avian flu is also becoming widespread in different cat species because cats are eating infected birds. According to Mendez, there’s a 60% mortality rate in captive cats.

“Something I really want to get out to the public is - do keep your cats indoors. People who let their cats out are getting sick and unfortunately, there’s not much we can do at this point,” said Mendez.

The Department of Agriculture anticipates a decrease in cases followed by an influx when the birds once again migrate in late spring.

“It’s important not to touch the birds. Take precautions. Use gloves and discard them in a trash bag,” said Dr. Amar Patil, of the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.

The Raptor Trust in Millington is requesting people to contact their local animal control office for assistance if they believe they’ve found a bird that shows symptoms of avian influenza.

If they’re unable to reach animal control, they should call the Trust for an appointment before bringing any suspected avian influenza cases in.