The removal marks the first time in decades Lake Eola has been without its iconic swans, leaving many residents hoping the birds will eventually return.

The city of Orlando will begin rehoming its resident Lake Eola swans as the city prepares for a massive renovation plan around the lake. The deaths of dozens of swans and other birds from avian influenza earlier this year also influenced the decision.

City removes feeders and posts warning signs to curb disease spread, while some worry the policy could harm swans that rely on human-provided food

Internal emails obtained exclusively by News 6 show how the city of Orlando worked behind the scenes to respond to the recent deaths of dozens of swans at Lake Eola, including how to handle public messaging amid growing concern and what staff described as misinformation online.

While no swans at Lake Eola have died from bird flu in the past week, Orlando officials say a dead bird infected with avian influenza has been found at nearby Lake Davis Park. Local volunteers argue this outbreak could indicate broader issues with swan care at the city’s iconic lake.

The deaths come after an ongoing investigation that began in late December, when 21 bird deaths were initially reported.

More swans have died at Lake Eola, and the city of Orlando has confirmed avian flu is responsible, raising growing concerns among residents who consider the birds a symbol of downtown.

Orlando officials said on Monday that “the deaths of several different birds” at Lake Eola Park were found to be positive for Avian flu after two more swans were found dead at Lake Eola on Sunday.

City officials confirmed Wednesday that 11 birds, including nine swans, an anhinga and an ibis, have died at Lake Eola, though the cause of death remains unknown.

Nearly a dozen swans have died at Orlando’s Lake Eola Park since Dec. 23.

Swans, oranges, and water lilies have appeared on walls around South of Downtown Orlando over the past week, as artists create three new murals funded by a federal grant awarded to six Main Street districts across the city.

Orlando District 4 Commissioner Patty Sheehan joined volunteers and veterinarians at Lake Eola Park to round up the city's famous swans and get them checked out.

The new swans are acclimating in a designated pen at the park.

On Wednesday, the offspring of Queenie and Big Boy will make their debut at Lake Eola.

Orlando police detectives arrested a man accused of taking two baby swans from their nests at Lake Eola Park.