FALMOUTH, Maine — Many Mainers love their feathered friends, often welcoming wild birds to their backyards with birdseed and bird baths. But with avian flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), cases on the rise, some are wondering if feeding birds is safe.

Bird flu has affected millions of wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Is your backyard bird feeder putting you at risk? Experts weigh-in.

A dead bird found in Hays County has tested positive for bird flu, according to the county's health department.

Day-to-day operations require more resources like protective gear, space in the hospital to isolate birds and money to conduct testing, said New England Wildlife Center CEO Zak Mertz.