Gifting live animals like chicks, ducklings and bunnies during Easter remains a cherished tradition, but public health officials and animal welfare advocates warn of significant risks. Salmonella outbreaks, animal abandonment, and ecological harm continue to plague this practice, prompting calls for safer alternatives like toys or candy. In 2024, the CDC reported 470 Salmonella cases linked to backyard poultry across 48 states, with 125 hospitalizations and one death. Investigations identified contact with live poultry as the primary source. Salmonella spreads through handling birds or their environments, even without direct contact. Infants, young children, seniors, and immuno-compromised individuals face the highest risk of severe illness, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps lasting up to seven days. Severe cases may require hospitalization. Food and food surfaces can become contaminated with bacteria from live animals if strict hygiene is not practiced. Animal welfare issues are significant.
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