A Groundbreaking Initiative for Bat Conservation

In a groundbreaking move for wildlife health, Jersey Zoo is developing a pioneering vaccine aimed at protecting its bat population after a tragic incident led to the deaths of 10 bats from a mysterious infection.

Urgent Measures Taken for Bat Safety

Following the unsettling loss, the bat enclosure was swiftly closed for a week. The surviving Livingstone fruit bats were relocated to a non-public area to ensure their safety and facilitate close monitoring by zookeepers.

Precautionary Actions Unveiled

Matt Goetz, the interim zoological director of the Durrell Wildlife Preservation Trust, stated that all 80 bats at the zoo were given precautionary treatments to avert further loss. Initially, the bacteria was treated with antibiotics as the team worked diligently to identify the strain.

Understanding the Infection

Mr. Goetz revealed that the infectious agent was identified as pasteurella, a bacterium normally found within the bats' own microbiome, ruling out external exposure.

First-Ever Bat-Specific Vaccine in Development

In a bid to prevent future outbreaks, a specialized vaccine is being developed—set to be the first of its kind targeting this particular bacterium in bats. This pioneering measure is expected to be administered to the mammals next month, providing long-term protection.

Tailoring Vaccines for Wildlife