The Berlin Zoo was cleared on Friday afternoon. The reason is a case of bird flu, which was detected in a wading bird. It is still unclear when the zoo can reopen. First, all birds there must be tested for the disease.
The Berlin Zoo was cleared and closed on Friday afternoon. According to a spokesman for the Senate Department for the Environment, the reason is a case of bird flu in a hammerhead, an African wader species. As a result, the animal has been diagnosed with the highly contagious disease. In order to prevent further spread, the zoo had to be closed immediately. The environmental administration thus confirmed a corresponding report by the “daily mirror” (external link).
According to zoo spokeswoman Philine Hachmeister, the dead hammerhead was discovered on November 13 and its remains were sent to the Berlin-Brandenburg state laboratory. The positive bird flu finding (H5N1) was also confirmed by the National Reference Laboratory.
Protective measures were initiated immediately and the zoo was closed to guests as a precaution with immediate effect. “Nearly all the birds – including our penguins – have now been moved to the rear aviaries or stables,” explains Zoological Director Christian Kern. “Fortunately, no other animal is showing symptoms of the disease. Nevertheless, all birds are tested for avian influenza,” he adds.
Birds directly affected include several Abdim’s storks, spectacled pelicans and crowned cranes. The employees entrusted with the care of birds wear protective clothing to prevent the virus from being spread. The responsible veterinary authority ordered the zoo’s animal population to be closed. At the same time, a risk analysis – with the involvement of other external experts – is being initiated for the overall situation at Zoo Berlin.
There is no massive danger to humans. “So far, only isolated cases of human infection have been associated with the H5N1 virus. However, there is a risk of the virus being introduced to other bird populations. A precautionary closure of the entire zoo grounds is an important step in this situation until we have given us a better overview of the situation. The primary goal is to prevent the spread of avian influenza,” explained the environmental administration.
Zoos and animal parks in Greifswald, Karlsruhe, Rostock, Heidelberg and in the Main Valley have also been affected by bird flu. As a precaution, Tierpark Berlin is also beginning to bring the majority of its birds into the stables.
It is unclear when the Berlin Zoo can reopen. It may have to remain closed for several weeks.
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