Jaipur, 13th November 2024: An outbreak of avian botulism has struck Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan, claiming the lives of over 600 birds since October 26. Several native and migratory birds were found paralysed, with droopy necks, lethargic, unable to fly or waddle, and exhibiting typical symptoms of avian botulism. Members of the Rajasthan Forest Department, Animal Husbandry, State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF), District Administration, and local panchayat are working tirelessly on the ground to provide relief and conduct rescue operations.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) – Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) Emergency Response Network (ERN), and local NGOs, Hope and Beyond and Raksha Jaipur, have also joined the rescue efforts.

An avian botulism outbreak was previously witnessed in 2019 and claimed the lives of thousands (>22,000) of migratory and native birds.

Sick birds are being treated a rescue facilities in Mithri and Kachroda | Photo by Bindu Raghavan/WTI

As of 13th November 2024, more than 600 birds have been reported dead and over 350 are currently under care at local rescue centres in Mithri and Kachroda. Over 90 birds have recovered and been released.

Dr. Joy Gardner, Chairman of Hope and Beyond stated that emergency shelter, intensive care and specialised treatments are being provided to the birds. This includes the creation of artificial ponds and aviaries, as well as infrared therapy, oxygen supply, and temperature control to stabilise critically ill birds.

Sambhar Lake is a crucial gathering site for migratory water birds during the winter months. This includes species like greater flamingos, black-winged stilt, Eurasian curlew, green sandpiper, great thick-knee, northern shoveler, ringed plover, demoiselle crane, northern pintail, Garganey, Brahminy duck, and many other species of ducks, stilts, plovers, sandpipers and several waders.

Avian botulism is a paralytic neuromuscular disease caused by a toxin produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. The disease, exacerbated by climate change, reduced water levels, and inadequate wastewater management, has severe consequences for bird populations. Infected birds show signs of paralysis in their wings, legs, and necks, often leading to death due to hypothermia, gasping, inability to walk or fly and, in some extreme cases, even diarrhoea.

A rescued bird suffering avian botulism under treatment| Photo by Bindu Raghavan/WTI

SP Singh, CCF Nagaur, stated that in addition to the ongoing rescue efforts, the Forest Department is working to control the spread of the disease by removing and safely disposing of bird carcasses from the lake. This proactive action has likely helped prevent the typical flare-up of the disease seen in previous outbreaks.

Dr. Bindu Raghavan, Head, Wild Rescue Division, WTI expressed that the vigilance and preparedness of the Forest Department teams along with our ERN partners, Raksha and Hope & Beyond, have led to a substantial decrease in the number of casualties compared to the previous outbreak. She added that while there is hope the situation will soon subside, bacterial growth conditions are dependent on weather and other factors and the situation may flare up again. However, she assured that the teams are fully prepared to address the situation if it escalates.