As avian influenza continues to spread around the world, researchers in Japan are turning to human medicine to protect rare and endangered bird species. Anti-virals are turning out good results in experiments so far, with the aim being to protect animals in zoos and keep natural habitats free of dangerous disease.
Under avian flu quarantine guidelines, a record 17.7 million chickens were culled during the past year in Japan. The arrival of migratory birds carrying the virus from overseas could cause further outbreaks.
Saving the golden eagle
Omoriyama Zoo in Akita City is known for its breeding program for the endangered Japanese golden eagle. In 2016, a black swan at the zoo died from avian flu.
Under national quarantine guidelines, in the event of a farm outbreak, all chickens and other domestic animals get destroyed. But at zoos and other facilities, it is up to officials to decide how to manage avian flu.
Omoriyama Zoo director Komatsu Mamoru recalls it was difficult to know what to do when the swan died: Prevent the spread of infection, or protect the animals.
The zoo felt it had no choice but to destroy any swans and pelicans that might have come into contact with the infected bird.