State zoo on guard after bird flu scare in UP

Guwahati: Animals and birds at the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden are safe as of now as far as bird flu (H5N1) is concerned, said the zoo authorities on Thursday, a day after the Central Zoo Authority ordered the closure of all zoos in Uttar Pradesh until May 20, following the confirmed death of a tigress due to bird flu in Gorakhpur Zoo.Meanwhile, the state zoo authorities have asserted that stringent measures are in place, including keeping rescued birds in quarantine, monitoring them for prescribed periods, maintaining proper hygiene, and administering timely vaccinations. A senior official of the zoo added that the state zoo has not yet received any communication or alert from the Central Zoo Authority, even though it ordered the closure of zoos in Uttar Pradesh.An official, on condition of anonymity, said meticulous maintenance of hygiene in animal enclosures, comprehensive veterinary care, dedicated attention from animal keepers, and nutritionist-approved dietary regimens are adhered to very strictly, which reduces any possibility of bird flu infection in the zoo. The Head Animal Keeper, Rajanikanta Deka, who has served in the zoo since 1997, said veterinarians assess the animals' health twice daily, providing enhanced care to those who are unwell or require additional attention.The head animal keeper emphasised their stringent focus on maintaining enclosure hygiene and feeding protocols."Environmental adaptations are implemented based on seasonal requirements. Heaters have been installed in tiger, lion, and giraffe enclosures for use during winter, while plastic sheets cover aviary enclosures to shield birds from direct fog exposure. During summers, fans are positioned in enclosures where necessary," he added. Deka said zoo administration maintains stringent standards regarding the balanced and nutritious diet of the animals."The requisite quantity of food needed to nourish the animals is delivered by suppliers at the zoo. The quality of provisions supplied by vendors is meticulously examined by specialists before distribution to the animals to prevent any food contamination," he added.Approximately 250 kg of beef and mutton for the carnivorous animals and roughly 50 quintals of elephant grass and 70 quintals of tree leaves from specified trees for herbivorous animals, alongside pulses, rice and maize powder, vegetables, and fruits, are needed daily to sustain the animals at the zoo.