VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating the reported deaths of dozens of vultures at Blue Spring State Park, according to an FWC spokesperson.
Both the FWC and Florida Department of Environmental Protection are addressing reports received throughout January of 17 sick and 101 dead vultures at the Volusia County state park, the spokesperson said in a statement.
Samples have been collected and submitted to the Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Kissimmee for testing, the statement reads.
This comes amid recent updates from the city of Orlando as reports of dead, wild birds were received from Lake Eola and Lake Davis parks, prompting advocates to petition local leaders for cleaner lakes. Avian flu was linked to the bird deaths reported at both of those locations.
[MORE: 30% of Lake Eola swans dead from bird flu]
Visitors to the park said they were surprised and concerned by the number of birds found.
Julie Gilbert, who was walking through Blue Spring State Park on Thursday, said park officials warned her about the potential presence of bird flu in the area.
“They said yes, they heard there is a lot of them that have been dying,” Gilbert said. “I just wondered what is out there and what is happening and why.”
Others said they had recently seen vultures in the park and were saddened by the situation.
“I think that sounds terrible,” said Hannah Poole, who frequently visits the park with her family. “We spend a lot of time here.”
Concerns are not limited to Volusia County. In Seminole County, city officials in Winter Springs confirmed birds at Torcaso Park have tested positive for avian influenza.
Matt Resser with the city of Winter Springs said park personnel discovered 12 dead ducks in recent weeks, and testing confirmed the presence of the virus.
“Just be mindful that there are some issues with the ducks at the park,” Resser said. “Be wary of any birds you may see.”
Wildlife officials say transmission of avian influenza to humans remains rare but are urging visitors to take precautions, including washing hands and cleaning shoes after visiting parks.
FWC encouraged any further reporting of dead-bird sightings with its Avian Mortality Reporting App.