Dozens of dead birds found along Coney Island shore as bird flu spreads
Clare Kopelakis said she reported the discovery to the city’s Parks Department and filed a 311 complaint. But she said the complaint was canceled a day later, while the birds are still on the beach.
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A Coney Island resident is sounding the alarm after discovering dozens of dead birds washed up along the shore at Coney Island Creek Park.
Clare Kopelakis said she reported the discovery to the city’s Parks Department and filed a 311 complaint. But she said the complaint was canceled a day later, while the birds are still on the beach.
“They should remove all the dead carcasses,” Kopelakis said. “That’s got to be a health violation. Other animals might eat them and spread disease.”
Experts say the situation is concerning.
“It is a public danger,” said Rita McMahon, director of the Wild Bird Fund.
McMahon said New York City is currently seeing a surge in highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu.
“Right now, throughout the city, wherever there’s a body of water, you’re going to be seeing birds sick and dying and dead,” McMahon said.
She said this winter has been especially difficult for birds, with snow covering food sources and ice forming over waterways, leaving many birds weakened.
While bird flu is not easily transmitted to humans, McMahon said it can pose a risk to pets.
“If you see a sick or dying bird, don’t let your dog or cat near it,” she said.
Experts advise anyone who sees a dead or sick bird in a public space to report it to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and file a complaint through 311.
If a dead bird is found on private property, she says residents should wear gloves and a mask before handling it and put the carcass inside three plastic bags. She says to always disinfect any surfaces that come into contact with it.
The Parks Department did not respond to a request for comment by publication time.
