Something strange is happening in Richmond, California. Birds are dropping from the sky — and not just one or two. In some cases, entire flocks are going down. Witnesses have described loud popping noises just before seeing the birds slam into the ground. Most of the dead birds are starlings and mourning doves, common in the area, but their sudden deaths are anything but ordinary.
Surveillance footage has even captured a few of these events, with birds seemingly exploding mid-air. It’s as creepy as it sounds.
First Theories: Power Lines or Natural Causes?
At first, residents thought the birds might be electrocuted by nearby power lines. It seemed like the only logical explanation for so many birds to die in the same spot. But Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) quickly ruled that out. They checked their infrastructure and said it’s all in compliance with bird safety regulations.
Others thought it could be poisoning or maybe even disease. But so far, no toxic substances have shown up in the necropsies (animal autopsies), and they appeared otherwise healthy.
Necropsies Point to Disturbing Possibility
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife took a closer look and found something even more concerning: trauma consistent with pellet or BB gun injuries. Some of them had small puncture wounds and internal damage that didn’t match disease or electrocution.
That’s raised the possibility that someone—or multiple people—could be intentionally targeting the birds. If that’s the case, it may not just be a wildlife issue. It could turn into a criminal investigation.
Why This Is a Big Deal
Besides being downright disturbing, the deaths of so many birds could point to bigger problems. If someone is harming animals in a public neighborhood, it raises serious concerns about safety for both people and pets. Local officials are urging residents to report any suspicious behavior and avoid touching dead or injured wildlife…