Giving live chicks, ducklings and rabbits as Easter gifts remains a popular tradition, but public health officials warn the practice continues to fuel salmonella outbreaks and animal welfare concerns.
Salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard poultry, animal abandonment and potential ecological harm have repeatedly prompted calls for safer alternatives, such as stuffed toys, chocolate eggs or other inanimate gifts.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 559 cases of salmonella infections linked to backyard poultry across 48 states in the most recent outbreaks investigated through September 2025. These cases have resulted in 125 hospitalizations and two deaths.
Epidemiological, traceback, and laboratory data suggest that chickens and ducks had contact with backyard poultry, which was identified as the primary source of infection. The illness began as early as December 2024 and continued until September 2025. Officials noted that the actual number of illnesses is likely higher because many cases go unreported. CC estimates there are 29 cases of salmonella for every confirmed case.
Salmonella spreads easily through direct or indirect exposure to live birds or their environment. People can become infected by touching poultry, cages, feed or other items and then touching their mouths or food without washing their hands properly. Even birds that appear healthy and clean can carry germs.
Children, infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for serious illness. Symptoms typically appear between 6 hours and 6 days after exposure, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most healthy adults recover within 4 to 7 days, but severe cases may result in hospitalization or, in rare cases, death.
Health officials emphasize that food and surfaces can become contaminated if hygiene practices are not strictly followed. The CDC advises against kissing or cuddling backyard poultry, eating or drinking near poultry, or allowing children under 5 years of age to handle chicks or ducklings.
Animal welfare and environmental issues
In addition to food safety and other human health concerns, the tradition of giving chicks, ducklings, and rabbits raises serious animal welfare concerns. Humane societies and rescue groups report that many animals who receive Easter gifts surrender or become abandoned once their novelty wears off. Domestic rabbits in particular often face difficulties when released into the wild, as they can become prey for predators, disrupt local ecosystems, compete with native species, or spread disease.
Chicks and ducklings require special care, including proper husbandry, nutrition, and veterinary care. Many succumb to neglect or improper handling by inexperienced owners, especially children.
Despite advisories urging caution in several states, retailers and hatcheries continue to sell live poultry and rabbits during the Easter period. Online sales add additional regulatory challenges. Some stores have improved practices, such as providing hand sanitizer near shelves and keeping animals out of direct contact. Others provide educational materials, but enforcement is inconsistent.
Public health campaigns already highlight key precautions for those with backyard flocks. These include washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact (or using hand sanitizer if soap is not available), supervising children closely, keeping flocks and supplies outside the home, collecting eggs frequently, and cooking eggs thoroughly to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Experts recommend that families keep their Easter traditions without live animals. Options include candy, educational books about animals, or responsibly adopting a pet from a shelter after thoroughly researching its long-term care needs.
“All backyard poultry can carry salmonella, which can cause illness,” the CDC states on its outbreak page. “Always take steps to stay healthy around your flock.”
For more information about safe practices, CDC offers resources on hand hygiene, egg handling, and flock management. People who experience serious symptoms, such as diarrhea that lasts more than three days, bloody diarrhea, high fever, or signs of dehydration, should seek immediate medical attention and notify their doctor if they have had contact with poultry.
