The Skopje Zoo, the main zoo in North Macedonia's capital, was closed after authorities confirmed the presence of a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu.

The announcement was made by the Food and Veterinary Agency on October 19 following the death of a goose found in the zoo's pond.

Laboratory testing of the deceased bird confirmed the presence of the H5N1 strain of the avian influenza virus. In response, a competent official veterinarian conducted surveillance throughout the zoo and initiated several measures to monitor the outbreak.

As part of the containment strategy, humane culling and disposal were carried out for various birds within the zoo, including 24 ducks, six geese, five chickens and one jackdaw. Additionally, the entry and exit of animals from the zoo have been prohibited, while visitor access is also severely restricted.

Disinfection measures are underway, alongside examinations of other birds present in the zoo for the virus. Enhanced biosecurity measures have been implemented to suppress the disease and prevent its spread to both wildlife and humans, according to the agency's statement.

These measures will remain in effect for 21 days, during which the zoo will remain closed to the public.

The last reported cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza occurred in 2022, affecting several areas such in the country, including the municipality in Skopje.

Avian influenza poses a significant threat to the poultry industry, often resulting in substantial economic losses and leading to restrictions on the import and export of live birds and poultry products. Wild birds are known carriers of avian influenza viruses, and the disease can be transmitted to humans.

However, the situation took a controversial turn on the morning of the incident, with Skopje Zoo officials alleging that the Agency for Food and Veterinary's inspectors, accompanied by armed personnel, entered the zoo without any warrant, official decision, or supporting documentation.

According to a statement by the zoo, the inspectors, acting on orders from the agency’s director, proceeded to cull several dozen birds without providing evidence to justify the action.

The zoo's management claimed that the culled birds included decorative species of geese and ducks that reside in the nearby city park, which has natural access to the zoo grounds.

In a post on the zoo’s official Facebook page, they suggested that the culling was part of a deliberate effort to "fabricate a crisis" and create an "alibi for the closure of Skopje Zoo" in an attempt to damage its reputation.

Skopje Zoo, which has been a prominent attraction since its establishment in 1926, now plans to file criminal charges against the agency's director, the inspectors, and the armed individuals involved in the incident. The zoo is a popular destination for visitors from across North Macedonia and the wider region.