So far, only one case of avian influenza has been detected (the hamerkop that died on 13 November). However, the testing of the remaining 1,207 birds is not yet complete. So far, no more of our birds have died and none have been put to sleep. We are currently investigating whether the H5N1 virus was brought into the Zoo by a wild bird. It will take time before we can make any reliable statements about how we will proceed further.
At the weekend, an epidemiologist from the Friedrich-Löffler-Institut (Federal Research Institute for Animal Health) gained an overview of the situation. He is now on hand to advise the team on site. Along with other experts, including from the Berlin Mitte veterinary office, he inspected all the bird habitats and reviewed the hygiene measures that are in place. The Zoo is currently only accessible to authorised personnel whose presence is required, for example, to feed and take care of our animals. The staff members looking after the birds at Zoo Berlin have received comprehensive training and are wearing protective clothing to prevent the spread of the disease. This is the first confirmed case of avian influenza at Zoo Berlin.
We do not yet know how long Zoo Berlin will have to remain closed. Both the Aquarium and the Tierpark are still open.
