Summary of Zoo Successfully Implements Avian Flu Vaccines in C.A. Condors:
Several zoos, including the L.A. Zoo, participated in successful vaccine trials for California condors to protect them against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The trial showed that 60% of the condors produced the expected antibodies to partially protect against HPAI mortality. HPAI has threatened many wild bird species, including condors, and was detected in wild condors in Arizona, killing 21 birds. The USDA approved the emergency use of the vaccine for condors in managed care, and the vaccines are now being administered to pre-release birds that will be released into the wild. The collaboration between zoos and other organizations has been integral to the program’s success. The trial started with black vultures to ensure the vaccine’s safety in vulture species before proceeding to condors. Overall, the progress in the vaccine trials is a significant milestone in the recovery efforts for California condors.
Summary:
1. The L.A. Zoo and other organizations conducted successful vaccine trials for California condors to protect them from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
2. The trial was coordinated with various government agencies and other zoos.
3. Results showed that 60 percent of the condors produced the expected antibodies for partial protection against HPAI.
4. HPAI has already affected wild condors in Arizona, posing a significant threat to their population.
5. The vaccine is now being administered to pre-release condors to eventually vaccinate free-flying birds.
California condors, an iconic and critically endangered species, recently achieved another milestone in their conservation journey. Thanks to the efforts of the L.A. Zoo and various partners, successful vaccine trials were conducted to protect these majestic birds from the highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI.
This groundbreaking trial was made possible by collaborating with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the USDA, and the U.S. Geological Service. The L.A. Zoo worked alongside the San Diego Wildlife Alliance, Oregon Zoo, and Carolina Raptor Center to conduct the trials. The results from the initial test group were highly promising, with 60 percent of the condors producing measurable antibodies that could offer partial protection against mortality caused by HPAI.
The L.A. Zoo has been a vital player in the conservation efforts for California condors for over three decades. In the 1980s, when the species was on the brink of extinction with only about 20 individuals remaining, the L.A. Zoo joined forces with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other partners to save and protect these birds. This collaboration has led to a significant increase in the condor population, with over 500 California condors thriving today.
The emergence of HPAI posed a new and dire threat to the condors. This virus threatened various wild bird species across the United States, leading the L.A. Zoo to proactively protect all the birds in their care. Measures such as closing the Aviary, implementing foot-washing procedures for keepers and staff, and removing wild bird feeders from the Zoo premises were implemented to minimize the risk of contact with carriers.
Tragically, HPAI was detected in wild condors in Arizona in early April 2023, resulting in the death of 21 birds within a few weeks. This alarming situation highlighted the urgency of finding effective solutions to combat the disease. With only around 300 individuals left in the wild, the impact of HPAI could potentially reverse decades of conservation work in just a short time.
In May, the USDA approved the emergency use of a vaccine against HPAI specifically for the critically endangered California condors in managed care. The aim was to evaluate the vaccine’s efficacy and potential benefits for free-flying condors. The results surpassed expectations, leading to administering the vaccines to pre-release birds. These pre-release birds are those raised under human supervision and intended for eventual release into the wild.
Collaboration with zoos has played a fundamental role in the success of the vaccination program. According to Ashleigh Blackford from the California Condor Recovery Program, the expertise and support of zoological partners have been indispensable in implementing this trial and ensuring the vaccine’s success. The zoos involved in the project have consistently demonstrated their commitment to the conservation of these incredible birds.
Before the vaccine was tested on condors, it first underwent trials on a surrogate species: black vultures. This crucial step at the Carolina Raptor Center in North Carolina established the vaccine’s safety for vultures and paved the way for its use in condors.
Twenty-five condors from the three zoos were selected based on certain criteria such as age, gender, genetics, and whether they were raising young. Ten birds received two doses of the vaccine, ten received a single dose, and five were in the control group for comparison. The vaccination process has been monitored closely, and based on the results obtained using an antibody detection test, pre-release birds are now receiving two doses of the vaccine.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service eagerly awaits the final results from the trials. These results will determine the next steps in the vaccination program and the potential for vaccinating free-flying condors. The successful implementation of these vaccines is a significant step forward for conserving California condors, bringing hope for preserving this species that was once on the brink of extinction.
To learn more about the overall trial, the next steps, and the impact of HPAI on the Southwest condor population, you can visit the dedicated page on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s website for HPAI updates.
The dedicated efforts of the L.A. Zoo, in collaboration with other zoos and government agencies, have demonstrated the power of collective action in wildlife conservation. It is a reminder that by combining our knowledge, resources, and passion, we can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity.
The successful implementation of the avian flu vaccines in California condors is a remarkable scientific achievement and a testament to our dedication to preserving the natural world. As we continue to work together, we can ensure a brighter future for these majestic birds and all the incredible wildlife that calls our planet home.
