Check on bird flu through migratory birds

Bhopal, Jan 25: A dead bird found in Van Vihar National Park following outbreak of bird flu in West Bengal has brought the authorities on toes. More than 40 species of migratory birds that arrived at the place this winter are now under scanner to prevent spread of deadly Avian Influenza. The Forest Department has also alerted officials concerned to keep close watch on migratory birds after receiving directives in this regard from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest.

The central government has also alerted Secretary Veterinary to check the virus taking its toll on poultry birds.  Local bird 'lesser whistling teal' was reportedly found dead in Van Vihar after the deadly virus killed thousands of poultry birds in West Bengal about a fortnight ago. The dead bird was immediately sent to the State Disease Investigation Laboratory, which has reportedly confirmed that H5N1 virus did not kill it. About 70 species of migratory birds transcend borders and visit the state every winter from Europe, North-Eastern Asia, Siberia and Himalayan regions. Thousands of migratory birds have also arrived at the Van Vihar National Park. However, the epidemic has made the authorities in the state to toil day and nights to prevent spread of disease from the migratory birds.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) PB Gangopadhyay informed directives have been issued to keep close watch on migratory birds especially near water bodies. Veterinarians and other staff concerned have been alerted to prevent the outbreak and inform any death of birds if reported, he added further. JS Chauhan, Director Van Vihar though accepted that a dead bird was found dead recently in the National Park but clarified that the test has confirmed H5N1 virus was not the reason of death. Speaking on precautionary measures, he said employees have been deployed at the resting places of the migratory birds for round the clock monitoring.