Galapagos Islands closed due to possible bird flu outbreak

Galapagos National Park Director Arturo Izurieta noted that the closures were at Punta Espinoza and Bahía Urbina, which The decision was made after the discovery of more than a dozen dead specimens of the seabird, Galapagos gull (Puffinus subalaris).

The official reported that they closed these sites to tourism and erected epidemiological fences to prevent visitors from coming into contact with the dead birds, thus “preventing impacts on fragile biodiversity.”

Likewise, it was decided to carry out inspections, sample collection, testing and monitoring in the affected areas.

The restrictions do not apply to water activities such as diving and boating near areas that may be affected by the outbreak.

The results of laboratory analysis are not yet known, but experts are waiting because in September 2023 nearly half a thousand birds were affected across the archipelago.

Two other areas have also remained closed for six months as a result.

Due to its rich biodiversity, the Galapagos Islands are considered a natural laboratory where British scientist Charles Darwin was able to develop his theories of species evolution and natural selection.

In 1978, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization declared the islands a natural heritage of humanity.

The archipelago is located about a thousand kilometers west of the coast of mainland Ecuador, and 80% of its economy relies on sustainable tourism.

Jha/Avel