Over 585 Sea Lions, 55K Wild Birds Died Due to H5N1 Bird Flu Virus

Lima (Peru): In Peru, around 585 sea lions and 55,000 wild birds have died due to the H5N1 bird flu virus in recent weeks.

The Sernanp natural areas protection agency yesterday said that following the discovery of dead birds in eight protected coastal areas, rangers found the bird flu that killed them and had also claimed sea lions in seven protected marine areas. It said the dead birds included pelicans, various types of gulls, and penguins.

Laboratory tests also confirmed the presence of H5N1 in the dead sea lions, prompting the authorities to announce a biological vigilance protocol. Peru’s National Forest and Wildlife Service urged people and their pets to avoid contact with sea lions and sea birds on the beach.

Since late 2021, Europe has been gripped by its worst-ever outbreak of bird flu, while North and South America are also experiencing severe outbreaks.