Bird flu blamed for "beloved" seal's unexpected death at Massachusetts zoo
Tests show bird flu caused the death of a 21-year-old harbor seal at a zoo in New Bedford, Massachusetts earlier this month.
The Buttonwood Park Zoo said in a social media post that the "beloved" seal named Blue likely got the avian flu by coming into contact with an infected wild bird.
"Avian flu continues to affect a range of wild and domesticated animal populations, including residents at zoos across the country, so the recent event at BPZOO is, regrettably, far from unique," the zoo said.
Zoo closed on day of seal's death
The seal died early on the morning of Feb. 5.
"As this loss was unexpected and incredibly upsetting to our staff members, Zoo leadership made the compassionate decision to remain closed for the day," the zoo said.
The seal had been closely watched by veterinarians since Jan. 31 when staff noticed Blue's decreased appetite and lack of energy. They weren't sure at the time what was causing the seal's health problems.
The two seals living in the same habitat as Blue were separated when symptoms appeared and remain in good health. The zoo says there is "no risk" to visitors, and it has removed public duck feeders from the property.
Bird flu in mammals
The harbor seal case was included in a new U.S. Department of Agriculture report on bird flu in mammals. The agency said Wednesday that bird flu has been detected in rats for the first time.
There have been about 70 human cases so far, mostly in dairy and poultry workers, and one death in Louisiana as a result of the virus.
