Groups of dead birds have been turning up along Long Island, and state environmental officials are warning residents to steer clear of the carcasses as concerns about highly pathogenic avian influenza resurface. Viewers sent photos of dozens of dead birds at Milburn Pond in Baldwin, with similar piles reported at Lido Beach and Long Beach. The sightings follow a preliminary positive bird flu test from a dead goose at Huntington’s Heckscher Park and come on the heels of last year’s outbreak at Crescent Duck Farm in Aquebogue. Officials say the risk to most people remains low but are urging residents not to handle sick or dead birds.
What the DEC Is Saying
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the agency’s Wildlife Health Program is closely tracking the spread and impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza and is treating reports of clustered bird deaths with heightened concern. Field response depends on the details of each report, including how many birds are sick or dead, what species are involved, and whether the birds are found in areas where HPAI has not yet been documented. Because the virus is already widespread in free ranging wild birds, DEC says targeted surveillance, not blanket cleanup of every carcass, is often the most appropriate move.
Where Dead Birds Have Been Reported
A viewer sent pictures showing dozens of dead birds at Milburn Pond in Baldwin, and residents have reported similar clusters at Lido Beach and Long Beach, as reported by News 12 Long Island. That outlet also notes a separate preliminary positive result from dead geese found at Heckscher Park in Huntington. Local responders say not every sighting will lead to state removal or testing, but multiple carcasses in one spot are a clear trigger for reporting and evaluation…