Long Island’s beloved duck industry is facing a devastating blow. Crescent Duck Farm, the last duck farm on the island, has been hit by the highly contagious H5N1 bird flu strain. As a result, the farm must cull its entire flock of nearly 100,000 ducks—a heartbreaking decision that could spell the end of the century-old business.

Located in Aquebogue, Crescent Duck Farm has been a staple of the region since 1908, supplying prized ducks to top restaurants across the Northeast. But last week, the farm was placed under quarantine after the virus was detected. State and federal officials are now on-site to oversee the culling process and clean the facility.

Doug Corwin, part of the fourth generation running the farm, shared his anguish over the situation. “I’ve done this all my life, and we’re the last of this industry,” he said. “It’s gut-wrenching. You work your whole life for something, and then one day, everything is gone.”

The H5N1 strain has caused outbreaks nationwide, leading to the culling of flocks and herds in over a dozen states. While health officials assure the public that the risk to humans remains low, the impact on the farm and its workers is profound. “The virus isn’t transmissible among humans at this point,” said a local health official.

For now, the future of Crescent Duck Farm hangs in the balance. Its closure would mark the end of an era for Long Island’s duck farming legacy, leaving a void for chefs and diners who cherish its tender, flavorful meat.