Bird flu threatens Lower Saxony: Zoos take protective measures!

Bird flu threatens Lower Saxony: Zoos take protective measures!

In recent weeks, bird flu has caused excitement in northern Germany. Zoos and animal parks must now take extensive protective measures for their feathered residents. The situation is tense: The Vechta district recently recorded its sixth outbreak within a week and a half, which means that around 365,000 animals are affected. Despite the worrying situation, there are currently no restrictions for zoo visitors NDR reported.

Preparations are in full swing: stables have been prepared and disinfection facilities have been set up at Hanover Zoo. The zoo is home to about 400 birds in 48 species, including endangered animals such as the merganser duck, leopard goose, the German sparrowhawk and the grey-necked crowned crane. In future, all birds will be fed exclusively in stables to minimize contact with wild birds. So far there have been no confirmed cases of bird flu at Hannover Zoo.

Protective measures in other zoos

The Walsrode Bird Park has also taken precautions: around 4,000 birds from 600 different species are housed there. To protect the animals from infection by wild birds, pelicans and penguins were brought to their winter quarters and the mesh aviaries were covered with foil. Large ratites such as ostriches and cassowaries have a certain amount of freedom to roam, but for their safety there is a special permit so that they can continue to go outside.

The Nordhorn Zoo has also taken measures. Accommodations were prepared there for ducks, geese, quails and chickens. Every animal resident is carefully examined before being installed. This precaution is intended to minimize the risk of infection from wild birds and to respond effectively should an outbreak occur. The Time emphasizes that contact with wild birds should be reduced to ensure the animals' health.

All-round protection for animal populations

The Serengeti Park Hodenhagen is home to around 100 birds, including large ratites and flamingos. Here too, everything is done to protect the animals, because in the event of an infection the entire population could be culled. The Zoo by the Sea in Bremerhaven also takes the threat seriously. In order to increase safety, fish is only fed by hand and disinfection tubs are set up.

The current measures show how serious the situation is for bird populations in northern Germany. The zoos and animal parks are in close contact with the authorities in order to be able to react quickly in an emergency and to put the welfare of the animals first.