Three puffins at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma have died in recent days, prompting the zoo to temporarily close its outdoor puffin exhibit while veterinarians race to pinpoint the cause. The remaining birds are being treated with antibiotics, staff have blocked off the pathway to the aviary, and guest access to that part of the habitat is on hold. Early findings suggest an avian illness is to blame, although it is still under investigation. No human cases have been reported, but visitors who recently stopped by the puffin area are being asked to keep an eye out for flu-like symptoms.
According to FOX 13 Seattle, preliminary testing points to avian psittacosis as a possible culprit, and zoo staff are working with state and local public health officials while they wait for confirmation. FOX 13 Seattle reports that the surviving puffins are already on antibiotics and that investigators are looking into whether migrating wild birds may have introduced the infection.
In a statement to FOX 13 Seattle, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium director Alan Varsik said, “We are taking this situation seriously. Throughout this process, we’ve worked closely with state and local public health officials and veterinary experts.” He added that the zoo is following expert guidance to safeguard animals, staff, and guests while the probe continues…