CHENNAI: Post-mortem examination of crows found dead in parts of Chennai has revealed nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys) and splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen), providing specific pathological evidence in the ongoing investigation into the deaths.

According to Dr Kamal Hussain, chief veterinary officer, Greater Chennai Corporation, the birds were first examined and samples collected at the Madras Veterinary College and Hospital. The samples were subsequently sent to TN Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, where the post-mortem was conducted.

“The findings of nephritis and splenomegaly point towards poisoning,” Hussain said. “The samples have now been forwarded to a pharmacology laboratory for further analysis to identify the toxic substance involved.”

The deaths of crows had earlier been reported from neighbourhoods in Adyar, raising concerns among residents. Poisoning had already been suspected in earlier reports, and authorities had said laboratory analysis would be key to confirming the cause.