Vandalur Zoo will remain closed to visitors on October 22 and 23 after the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal, confirmed H5N1 Avian Influenza infection in water birds at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Chennai. The temporary closure is intended to allow intensive sanitisation, disinfection and tighter implementation of biosecurity measures.
The zoo authorities appealed to the public to avoid visiting the facility during the two-day precautionary shutdown. In a statement issued by the Director of the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, officials said preventive measures had been initiated in line with Government of India guidelines and that the affected area had been placed under close monitoring.
Seven water birds died in the zoo’s Vedanthangal birds enclosure between October 3 and October 9, according to sources cited in the report. The deaths involved four painted storks, one grey pelican, one grey heron and one oriental darter. Samples collected from the birds were tested by NIHSAD, which confirmed the H5N1 infection on October 21, 2026.
The zoo said no further bird mortality or sickness had been reported since October 9. Officials had cordoned off the enclosure after the first death and subsequently intensified biosecurity protocols to protect the remaining animals and staff. The measures include disinfection, sanitisation and restrictions around the affected enclosure.
The zoo authorities said the situation had remained stable so far, while noting that the closure would provide time for additional sanitation and surveillance. The Director’s statement requested public cooperation with the precautionary measures as officials continue monitoring the birds, other animals and staff within the zoological park.
The closure applies to October 22 and 23, after which the authorities are expected to assess the situation and determine whether visitor access can resume. No further extension or additional visitor restrictions were announced in the supplied statement.
