BIDAR, 17 MARCH

Concerns over a potential outbreak of bird flu are escalating in Karnataka following a series of suspicious crow deaths in Bidar. Recently, two dead crows were discovered on the premises of the government hospital in Bhalki town, intensifying public anxiety about the situation.

The alarming trend of crow fatalities has been ongoing for several days. Last month, hundreds of crows perished in Udgir, Maharashtra—an area adjacent to Bhalki taluk—following the detection of initial bird flu cases. With crows dying daily in Bidar, local residents are increasingly worried that the avian virus may have spread to their region.

Adding to the concern, it has been reported that poultry is being trafficked illegally from Maharashtra to bordering areas in Karnataka. Villagers are urging veterinary officials to investigate the dead crows urgently and assess any potential threats from bird flu.

Narasappa, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, confirmed to SALAR NEWS that his team collected samples from the deceased crows found at the hospital and dispatched them to the state laboratory in Bengaluru for analysis. He assured that further actions will be dictated by the lab results, which are expected within three days.