An outbreak of avian influenza (H5N1) has been detected at two major New York City zoos, with three ducks at the Queens Zoo confirmed to have died from the virus and 12 more birds at the Bronx Zoo under testing for possible exposure, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).
The findings come as bird flu continues to spread across the country, impacting poultry farms, wild birds, and even dairy cattle, contributing to rising egg prices and concerns over agricultural biosecurity.
Statewide Response and Precautionary Measures
In response to the growing outbreak, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday a temporary closure of all live bird markets in New York City and nearby counties to curb the spread of the virus.
READ MORE: Can Omega-3s Slow Down the Biological Ageing Process?
“Safeguarding public health is all about being proactive,” Hochul said in a statement.
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has mandated that:
- Markets without detected cases must sell their remaining birds and disinfect their facilities.
- Markets with detected cases must adhere to quarantine and depopulation protocols.
Low Risk to Humans, but Increased Caution for Zoo Birds
Since January 2022, H5N1 has infected approximately 156 million birds across commercial farms, backyard flocks, and wild populations nationwide. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the virus poses minimal risk to human health, as it does not currently spread easily between people.
As a precaution, the Wildlife Conservation Society, which operates the Bronx Zoo, Queens Zoo, Central Park Zoo, and Prospect Park Zoo, has taken steps to protect its birds:
- Vulnerable species have been moved to secure indoor enclosures.
- Exposure to wild birds, especially waterfowl, has been minimized.
- Zoo veterinarians and curators are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with city, state, and federal agencies.
Despite these measures, the Bronx and Queens Zoos remain open, with officials assuring visitors that the risk of transmission to humans is extremely low.
Visitors React to Precautions
At the Queens Zoo, some visitors noticed changes due to the outbreak.
“It feels empty,” said Marck Vasquez, 21, who was disappointed to find that the swans—one of his favorite attractions—had been relocated away from their usual pond.
Nearby, Chawsu, 36, originally from Myanmar, expressed less concern, having seen bird flu outbreaks regularly in her home country.
“I’m coming from a country where every year we have bird flu,” she said. “It’s not a worry to me.”
Looking Ahead
Zoo officials say they will continue to monitor the spread of H5N1 and adjust protocols as necessary to protect their bird populations while keeping exhibits open to the public.
