Over 1,500 crows found dead in Chennai, Centre flags bird flu, urges Tamil Nadu to step up precautions

Alarm bells are ringing in Chennai after more than 1,500 crows were found dead across multiple neighborhoods in recent days. The sudden deaths, reported from areas including Adyar, Gandhi Nagar, Pallikaranai, Velachery, Thiruvanmiyur, East Coast Road, and Old Mahabalipuram Road, have prompted authorities to confirm avian influenza (bird flu) in the city.

Residents first noticed crows collapsing in public spaces, on trees, and in residential areas, raising concerns among both civic and animal health authorities. Samples collected from the dead birds by the Animal Disease Investigation Team in Kancheepuram were sent to the National Institute of Animal Disease Control in Bhopal. Laboratory tests have now confirmed the presence of the virus.

Following the confirmation, the Central Veterinary Research Institute has written to Tamil Nadu’s Chief Secretary, urging the state government to intensify surveillance and disease-control measures. Officials have been instructed to monitor bird populations closely, restrict movement in affected zones, and implement rapid response protocols to prevent further spread.

The Animal Husbandry Department has issued public advisories, asking residents to immediately report any sudden bird deaths. People have been warned not to touch dead birds with bare hands, and authorities have instructed that carcasses, including crows, be safely buried in pits at least eight feet deep to avoid contamination.

While health experts continue to monitor the situation, authorities have reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for panic if safety measures are followed. Surveillance has also been increased in poultry farms and urban bird habitats across the city.

Reports indicate bird flu cases have also been detected in Kerala and Bihar, highlighting the need for coordinated state and central efforts to contain the outbreak and protect both public and animal health.