The main zoo in Skopje, North Macedonia, has been temporarily closed after authorities confirmed the presence of a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu. The closure comes after a goose was found dead in a pond within the zoo premises, with laboratory results confirming the presence of the Avian influenza H5N1 virus.
As a precautionary measure, authorities took immediate action by euthanizing dozens of ducks, geese, chickens, and a jackdaw that shared the same pond as the infected goose. The zoo is expected to remain closed for at least three weeks to allow for thorough disinfection, inspection of other animals, and the implementation of additional biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
While the last cases of bird flu in North Macedonia were detected in wild birds in 2022, the current outbreak poses a significant risk to the poultry industry and could result in restrictions on the import and export of live birds and poultry products. Furthermore, highly pathogenic strains of avian flu have the potential to be transmitted to humans, highlighting the importance of swift containment measures.
Established in 1926, Skopje's zoo is a popular attraction in the capital, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually from North Macedonia and the wider Western Balkans region. Despite past criticisms of the zoo's animal welfare standards, significant efforts have been made since 2008 to improve conditions, with authorities investing in upgrades and collaborating with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) to bring the facility in line with modern standards.
