COLUMBUS, Ohio — The lorikeets exhibit at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is temporarily closed due to a West Nile virus outbreak that killed nearly a dozen birds.

According to a release from the zoo, more than 60 birds lived in the Lorikeet Aviary — 10 have died due to the virus and 12 are currently receiving twice-daily treatment at the Animal Health Hospital.

The zoo said team members are "so attuned to the flock that they can spot the smallest changes in behavior — a bird that sits differently, moves less, or isn’t as eager to eat. These subtle cues allow our veterinary staff to act quickly, and that early detection is proving critical in helping lorikeets recover."

According to the release, the lorikeets were vaccinated against West Nile virus, but the vaccination is not always e

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