After a brief absence, live birds expected to return to the Farm Show

(Harrisburg) — Cameron and Maclay streets in Harrisburg are going to be much busier later this week: the Farm Show starts on Saturday.

And after a brief absence last year, live birds will be back at the show.

The state Agriculture Department didn’t allow the birds last year, out of concern that so many birds from different parts of the state could lead to an outbreak of the avian flu.

But those concerns have been addressed, and some 700 birds will fill exhibits at the Farm Show in Harrisburg.

Bonnie McCann with the state Agriculture Department says she’s excited for the birds return…

“Especially some of the Polish hens, and some of the great colorful and kinda crazy hair feathered birds, are certainly very popular. We look forward to them being back,” says McCann.

McCann says the birds will only be at the Farm Show for a short time – Saturday, Sunday and Monday – because of a volunteer shortage.

She says the birds will be in an updated exhibit, with better ventilation and lighting.

“It’s a well-lit room, somewhat quieter at this point than the Main Hall that they had been in before,” she adds.

The chick hatch and the duck slide also return this year, located in the Expo Hall.

The Farm Show runs from this Saturday until Sunday the 15th at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg.

Parking is $15, but admission is free.