Hundreds of Dead Birds Wash Up In Chicago Shoreline!
Bird carcasses litter Chicago shores, renewing bird flu fears.
By Kushani Gunathilaka
February 6, 2025
2:43 GMT-0830
Reports of dead 200-300 birds washing ashore on Chicago's beaches have sparked fresh fears over bird flu. Annette Prince of Chicago Bird Collision Monitors confirmed uptick in reports of common and red-breasted mergansers in distress. The cause of death is believed to be the avian or bird flu that is spreading widely in the states. Officials are urging residents of the Chicago area not to touch the dead or sick birds. The Chicago Park District also warns the residents to keep a close look on their pets and avoid contact with the dead birds.
These birds, unaccustomed to the shoreline, serve as an alarming indicator when stranded on beaches. Concerns escalate as crows and gulls feast on the carcasses. It further spreads the virus. The Chicago Park District is "aware of the recent mortality event impacting bird species along Chicago's lakefront."
In over three days, dozens of waterfowl, some sick, others lifeless, have been noted. The situation mirrors cases recorded in the last two months of avian flu striking various species.
“The District has deployed personnel to check all beaches and park lagoons after receiving reports of impacted birds at multiple locations. The District is addressing the removal and disposal of carcasses from park property. To protect the safety of patrons and their pets, we urge residents to follow park rules by keeping dogs leashed and avoiding contact with any bird remains while the matter is being addressed. Residents can assist by reporting any sick or deceased birds to 311.” The Chicago Park district told NBC Chicago.
Recent bird flu outbreaks in the area lead experts to presume similar causes in these mysterious deaths. The fear of cross-species transmission grows as previous incidents reported losses in Lincoln Park Zoo and a Matteson chicken farm.
Volunteers at North Avenue Beach continue to dispose of fallen birds swiftly. Meanwhile, questions linger about the epidemic's origin and persistence.
Dog owners along the beaches maintain vigilance over their pets' curiosities. Health experts stress that while bird flu in humans remains rare, caution is advised around affected avians.
A local named Kathleen Palla expressed her concerns about the ongoing mystery. Her companion, a lively sheepadoodle named Louis, isn't yet showing signs of worry.
The recent avian chaos heightens public sensitivity to avian flu's unpredictable pathways. Such events reflect the global interconnectedness of natural disease outbreaks.
Still, misconceptions find solace as researchers reiterate negligible human risk. This provides some relief amidst Chicagoans' growing anxiety.
"We've had bird flu before. Really not this variety, not this species and certainly not the number of birds that are being found and reported," says Annette Prince, director of Chicago Bird Collision Monitors.
Still, misconceptions find solace as researchers reiterate negligible human risk. This provides some relief amidst Chicagoans' growing anxiety. "We've had bird flu before. Really not this variety, not this species and certainly not the number of birds that are being found and reported," says Annette Prince, director of Chicago Bird Collision Monitors.
Moving forward, monitoring efforts intensify to prevent future ecological impacts. Stakeholders urge continued public awareness campaigns to curb misinformation.
Trending
