Good news has arrived for nature lovers and visitors in Patna as the bird flu scare at the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park seems to be over. The samples sent to the high-security laboratory in Bhopal have tested negative for the virus, bringing relief to the administration. The zoo, which was closed as a precautionary measure following bird deaths in nearby areas, is now expected to open its gates to the public shortly after March 7.
What safety measures are still being followed?
Even though the test results are negative, the zoo administration is not taking any risks regarding the safety of the animals and visitors. Strict protocols are currently in place to keep the environment virus-free.
- The entire zoo premises and animal cages are being sprayed with chemicals twice a day for disinfection.
- Green nets have been installed over all bird cages to prevent contact with outside birds.
- Staff members have been told to sanitize themselves every time they leave an enclosure.
- Employees are restricted to their assigned cages only and cannot move around unnecessarily.
How has the diet of the animals changed?
To avoid any external infection entering the food chain, the zoo authorities have significantly altered the diet plan for many animals. Chicken has been completely removed from the menu for carnivores and replaced with mutton, guinea pig meat, and rats. For birds like peacocks, eggs have been replaced with garlic and spinach to boost immunity. Ostriches and Emus are being fed cucumbers grown strictly within the zoo premises to ensure zero contamination from outside sources.
