Avian Botulism Outbreak in Rajasthan: Migratory Birds at Risk
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Death of 600 migratory birds in Rajasthan due to Avian Botulism. |
| Location | Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan (80 km southwest of Jaipur). |
| Cause | Botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. |
| Environmental Factors | High temperatures (>21°C), reduced salinity, and low oxygen levels in Sambhar Lake. |
| Outbreak Duration | Began on 26th October 2024 and continued for approximately two weeks. |
| Vulnerability | Migratory birds weakened by long journeys are more susceptible. |
| Management | Immediate removal and disposal of affected birds to limit spread. |
| Previous Incident | Similar die-off in 2019 caused nearly 18,000 bird deaths. |
| Global Perspective | Outbreaks observed in Australia and the U.S. during reduced salinity periods. |
| Sambar Lake Features | Largest inland salt lake in India, Ramsar site since 1990, fed by six rivers. |
| Central Avian Research Institute (CARI) | Located in Izzatnagar, Uttar Pradesh; studies poultry science for the Indian poultry industry. |