Authorities intensify surveillance as peacock deaths rise and bird flu fears spread across Tumakuru district
Tumakuru: Fear of bird flu has intensified across Karnataka’s Tumakuru district after the number of peacock deaths crossed 54 within the last 30 days, triggering panic among residents and forcing authorities to strengthen surveillance measures across affected regions.
The growing health concern comes weeks after laboratory reports confirmed that bird flu was responsible for the earlier series of peacock deaths reported in Tumakuru. While officials have clarified that recent chicken deaths in Bommanahalli tested negative for avian influenza, the discovery of another dead peacock in Kunigal has once again raised fears about the possible spread of the infection to additional parts of the district.
Authorities have now declared a high alert and intensified monitoring operations amid concerns that the outbreak could expand further if immediate containment measures are not effectively enforced.
Read Also: Tumakuru Bird Flu Panic: H5N1 Confirmed Behind Peacock Deaths, 33 Villages on High Alert
Bird Flu Confirmed Earlier in Peacock Deaths
According to officials, peacocks have been dying mysteriously across Tumakuru taluk for nearly a month. Earlier reports had confirmed the deaths of 44 peacocks, but the latest figures indicate that the number has now risen beyond 54, causing major concern among wildlife authorities and local residents.
The situation became more alarming after peacock carcasses and droppings were reportedly found in Kunigal, indicating possible movement of infected birds beyond previously affected areas. Officials have stated that fresh samples will immediately be sent for laboratory examination if additional peacock deaths are reported in Kunigal or nearby regions.
The district administration had earlier received a forensic laboratory report confirming bird flu infection in peacocks during the first week of May, following repeated wildlife deaths in the area.
Animal Husbandry Department Issues District-Wide Alert
Following the continuous deaths of peacocks, the Animal Husbandry Department has placed the district under heightened surveillance and instructed officials to closely monitor bird movement and wildlife activity.
Authorities have directed poultry farm owners and local administrations to immediately report any unusual bird or animal deaths. Veterinary teams and field officers have also been instructed to strengthen precautionary measures in sensitive zones.
On May 1, the district administration declared a high alert in 33 villages located within a 10-kilometre radius of affected regions after the FSL report confirmed bird flu infection among peacocks. Five Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) were also formed to monitor the situation and coordinate emergency containment efforts.
Chicken Deaths in Bommanahalli Test Negative for Bird Flu
Amid the growing panic, more than 30 chickens had recently died at a poultry farm in Bommanahalli village of Tumakuru taluk, creating fear among villagers and poultry farmers. Samples from the dead chickens were immediately sent for medical testing to determine whether bird flu had spread to poultry farms.
Officials have now confirmed that the laboratory report returned negative for avian influenza, bringing temporary relief to poultry farm owners and residents in the region.
However, authorities remain concerned over the continuing unexplained deaths of peacocks, especially after fresh carcasses were found in additional locations.
Authorities Strengthen Biosecurity Measures
Officials from the Animal Husbandry Department have instructed poultry farms across Tumakuru district to strengthen biosecurity protocols and maintain strict hygiene standards to prevent possible transmission.
Experts warn that continued wildlife deaths could pose a serious threat to both the poultry sector and ecological balance if containment measures are delayed. Surveillance teams are now closely tracking developments in affected villages and surrounding forest areas.
The rising number of peacock deaths has once again highlighted the growing concern surrounding avian influenza outbreaks in Karnataka and the urgent need for coordinated wildlife and public health monitoring systems.
