Fake cows ready for milking at US state fairs as bird flu threat looms

Attendees view cows that are shown by exhibitors at the state fair in West Allis, Wisconsin, U.S., August 9, 2024. Dairy farmers are taking precautions with testing for avian flu while exhibiting cattle during the fair. REUTERS/Jim Vondruska

NEW YORK: In Michigan this year, where dairy workers and herds have fallen ill from bird flu, a pair of unlikely prized cows are being prepped to take the state fair stage.

State fair organisers are this year featuring Milkshake and Buttercup, two life-sized fibreglass cows complete with rubber teats and water-filled udders, for a popular milking demo.