Rajasthan: Over 500 migratory birds die in Sambhar Lake due to Avian Botulism, rescue operations underway
Avian Botulism paralyses bird’s nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis, including wings, legs, and neck, which eventually causes death
Migratory birds death news: A significant number of migratory birds have died at Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan due to an outbreak of avian botulism, sparking concern among health and administrative authorities. As of today, 520 birds have been confirmed dead, with 235 more affected and currently being treated for the disease.
Jeetu Kulhari, a local official, shared that this is not the first such incident, as a similar die-off occurred in 2019. She said the team began taking action as soon as the outbreak was detected to prevent further spread. "We have been monitoring the situation closely every day since the disease was identified. The affected birds are being rescued and treated at a veterinary hospital," Kulhari said. "While transferring some of the critically ill birds, a few died during primary treatment," the official added.
In total, 10 teams have been mobilised for rescue operations around the lake, comprising members from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Animal Husbandry, Forest Department, and local administration. Their efforts have been focused in various areas of the lake, including Mohanpura, Khakarki, Jabdi Nagar, Gudha Salt, and the Sambhar Salt region.
Kulhari added that local support is crucial for the success of these efforts. "These birds travel thousands of km to migrate here, and it is our duty to protect them," she noted. The authorities have been working tirelessly to remove the carcasses from the lake and provide medical assistance to the sick birds. Fortunately, the death toll has now started to slow, and the condition of the ill birds is improving.
An investigation from a lab in Bareilly confirmed that the deaths were caused by botulism, a dangerous disease caused by toxins from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The disease paralyses the bird’s nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis, including the wings, legs, and neck, which eventually causes death.
Dr Rajendra Prasad, a veterinarian involved in the rescue operations, reported a positive outcome as well. Yesterday, 38 birds who had fully recovered were successfully released back into the lake. Currently, 50 birds are still undergoing treatment at the rescue centre.
The rescue teams are also employing drones for aerial surveys to assist in locating and rescuing affected birds.