Two zebra finches found dead at Delhi Zoo

Two zebra finches were found dead at the National Zoological Park here, zoo director Sanjeet Kumar said on Tuesday. Samples of the birds have been sent to a laboratory for screening and the results are awaited, he said.

The zoo authorities said no new death of water birds or migratory birds had been reported since September 1. All samples collected during this period tested negative for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus.

Additionally, no mammals in the zoo have been found infected, and no other animals have shown influenza-like symptoms.

“The zoo management has stated that intensive sanitation and biosecurity protocols are being rigorously enforced to protect the health of the animals, birds and staff members,” Kumar said.

“The reopening of the zoo will be decided by the competent authority, in accordance with prescribed guidelines, and visitors will be informed once a decision is made,” he added.

Last month, the Delhi zoo was placed under heightened surveillance after water birds died, with some confirmed to have the H5N1 virus.

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is caused by influenza viruses that primarily affect birds but can occasionally infect other animals, including humans. The highly pathogenic strains like H5N1 are of particular concern due to their potential to cause severe disease and outbreaks.

Since early September, the zoo has been monitoring bird populations closely and collecting samples for testing. While previous concerns had prompted temporary closures and preventive measures, so far, tests have returned negative results, except for the two zebra finches whose samples are still under investigation.

Till September 6, a total 9 painted storks and 3 black-headed Ibis died in water bird aviary/isolation ward. Out of this, 7 samples were found positive for H5N1 avian influenza virus, as per the zoo authorities.