What is Avian Botulism, that has killed over 500 migratory birds at Rajasthan's Sambhar Lake?

NEW DELHI: A deadly outbreak of avian botulism has claimed the lives of over 500 migratory birds at Rajasthan's Sambhar Lake since October 26.

The Central Avian Research Institute in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, has identified avian botulism as the cause of death in its investigation report, officials told PTI on Friday.

Sub-divisional officer Jeetu Kulhari said, “We came to know about the deaths on October 26. Since then, 520 birds have died due to avian botulism at the Sambhar Lake. Lab report has confirmed botulism as the cause of death.”

Botulism, caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum , releases a toxin that affects the nervous system of birds, leading to wing and leg paralysis, which often proves fatal.

The response to the tragedy includes a coordinated rescue and relief operation involving 10 teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), supported by various government departments.

Sick birds are being removed from the affected area and taken to a rescue center in Mithri, where they are receiving treatment. So far, 38 birds have been successfully treated and released back into the lake, Kulhari added.

This is not the first occurrence of avian botulism at Sambhar Lake. In 2019, a massive outbreak led to the deaths of an estimated 18,000 birds, according to a government report.