Editorial photo #13972707 Human Interest
Nepal's Central Zoo Reopens After A Month Following Bird Flu Scare
Spotted deer are pictured in an enclosure inside Nepal's Central Zoo on July 17, 2026. The zoo had been closed since June 19 following an outbreak of avian influenza A (H5N1) among vultures, owls, swans, other rare birds, a jungle cat, and civets. Avian influenza A (H5N1) was confirmed in samples from dead birds. The zoo has issued codes of conduct for visitors returning to the facility to ensure safety. Cages where the virus was traced and animals were culled have been marked with blank white boards, and red ribbon has been drawn over the cages. Before reopening, authorities conducted multiple tests on samples collected from the premises, including from dead crows. Officials stated that crows were the primary carriers of the virus at the zoo, which later spread, prompting the closure. The zoo houses around 1,300 animals across more than 100 species, including endangered snow leopards and chimpanzees. The zoo also serves as a rescue center for wild animals. (Photo by Subaas Shrestha/NurPhoto)
