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Florida - Avian flu in wild birds 2024-2026

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  • #31
    Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

    Last Modified: December 23, 2025
    ...
    State County Collection Date Date Detected HPAI Strain Bird Species WOAH Classification
    Florida Brevard 11/29/2025 12/18/2025 EA H5 Black scoter Wild bird
    Florida Brevard 11/29/2025 12/18/2025 EA H5 Black scoter Wild bird
    Florida Lee 11/10/2025 12/15/2025 EA H5 Mottled duck Wild bird
    ​...

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    • #32
      Commissioner Patty Sheehan's Post
      Click image for larger version  Name:	image.png Views:	1 Size:	4.1 KB ID:	1026591Commissioner Patty Sheehan
      11h ·

      We at the City of Orlando love our swans and take their health and well-being very seriously. On December 23rd, 2 swans were found deceased at Lake Eola Park. That number has grown to 12 over the past five days. Unfortunately, the deaths occurred during the holidays and our specialized veterinary experts were not available. The swans are being stored in a secure location so necropsies can be performed and cause of death determined. It is likely this could be another Avian Flu outbreak, similar to what happened in February of 2024. We can't be certain until tests are completed. We do not believe the deaths are suspicious. The deceased birds will be examined as soon as possible.

      A lot of misinformation has been circulating on social media by people who should know better. We appreciate our swan docents and volunteers. But that does not empower them to speak on behalf of the City of Orlando or disparage our parks staff. Our park rangers have been treating this as a worse-case scenario and are handling the deceased birds with safety protocols and PPE.

      During the last Avian flu outbreak we sanitized the park, as we are now, as a precaution. We are cleaning all defecation and sanitizing areas. Feeders have been removed to minimize contact with the birds.

      Avian flu spreads from migrating birds coming to Lake Eola Park. Our swans are pinioned and wings clipped to be consistent with State law. It is dangerous for birds to fly into traffic in urban areas. To suggest that clipping their wings is harmful to them is a fabrication to sensationalize this awful situation.

      Our parks staff has spent their holidays grieving animals they care about while dealing with unfounded allegations. Posting opinions does not solve problems or help our animals.

      The City of Orlando takes our swan population and their health and safety very seriously. We do annual checkups and provide a nutritious diet which is reflected in our animals' veterinary files.

      If you want to help our swans, please volunteer to help with their care. Be part of our Lake Eola team. Work with us, and help the swans. It is rewarding.
      Although with wild animals, it can be heartbreaking when bad things happen to them.

      More information will be coming as we know more. Lake Eola Park is safe. Enjoy your holidays.


      https://www.facebook.com/TheCityBeau...QV7emFeLnGAQkl

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      • #33
        Video of the above:

        Lake Eola swan deaths




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        • #34
          Click image for larger version  Name:	image.png Views:	1 Size:	88.8 KB ID:	1026834
          Brevard County
          Google map
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          Dead birds on Florida beaches have experts worried about avian flu
          ...
          Michael Dorgan By Michael Dorgan Fox News
          Published December 31, 2025 2:20pm EST

          Dead birds have been found along Florida’s Space Coast in Central Florida, raising concerns about a possible avian flu outbreak.

          While no cases have been confirmed, the nonprofit Florida Wildlife Hospital said samples of dead birds found in Brevard County were sent for testing.

          The organization said large-scale migration from northern regions could be bringing the virus into the state.
          ...
          Michael Shay, a local beachgoer, found several dead birds lying within several feet of each other on a beach last week.
          ...
          Shay said he saw dead pelicans, seagulls and gannets.
          ...
          It comes as Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan held a news conference Monday to discuss the deaths of at least a dozen swans at Lake Eola Park at the downtown park in recent days. The cause remains unknown, though Sheehan speculated avian flu could be responsible.
          ...

          Dead birds along Florida's Space Coast spark fears of a possible avian flu outbreak. Samples were sent for testing as wildlife officials monitor the situation.

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          • #35
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            City of Orlando - Government's Post

            City of Orlando - Government and Lake Eola Park
            19h ·
            A top priority of the city is the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the preservation of local wildlife.
            In December, city staff discovered the deaths of several different birds at Lake Eola Park. After an investigation, the birds were found to be positive for Avian Influenza. This virus naturally spreads among wild aquatic birds, worldwide, including swans. Since December 17, 2025, there have been 21 total bird deaths. Of the 21 deaths, there were 19 Royal Mute swan deaths as well as two other wild birds.
            The city is taking all necessary precautions as recommended by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), as well as local veterinarians, to keep our community safe and limit the spread of Avian Influenza.
            Per the CDC, people very rarely get sick with bird flu, however to limit exposure to the virus, please take the following precautions when visiting Lake Eola Park:
            -Avoid direct contact with birds and only observe them from a distance.
            -Do not feed birds.
            -Avoid contact with any bird excrement.
            -Remove your shoes before entering your home and clean them off if contamination is suspected.

            Remember, our Lake Eola swans are wild animals and should never be handled or touched by members of the public. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends allowing the Avian Influenza to run its course as some birds may build immunity and estimated a month of dissipation of infections. We will continue to follow their recommendations, track, monitor and report any new infections to FWC while remaining vigilant in our efforts related to disinfecting the park and keep the public informed.
            For more information, please visit orlando.gov/lakeeola.​

            A top priority of the city is the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the preservation of local wildlife. In December, city staff discovered the deaths of several different birds at...


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            • #36
              Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

              Last Modified: January 07, 2026
              ...
              State County Collection Date Date Detected HPAI Strain Bird Species WOAH Classification
              Florida Orange 12/22/2025 1/2/2026 EA H5 Mute swan Wild bird
              Florida Orange 12/22/2025 1/2/2026 EA H5 Mute swan Wild bird
              Florida Orange 12/22/2025 1/2/2026 EA H5 Mute swan Wild bird
              Florida Orange 12/19/2025 12/30/2025 EA H5 Great horned owl Wild bird
              ...



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              • #37
                Bird flu outbreak at Orlando's Lake Eola: Death toll rises to 32

                By Josh Frigerio
                Published January 12, 2026 12:34 pm EST
                Orlando News FOX 35 Orlando

                ORLANDO, Fla. - A total of 32 birds have died at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando since mid-December amid a suspected outbreak of avian influenza, otherwise known as the bird flu, the City of Orlando confirmed to FOX 35.

                From last week to this week, the new death toll reflects an increase of 11 birds. Officials said of the 32 deaths, 26 were Mute swans and the six others were other wild birds. Officials said three of the swans were considered to be wild.

                There are 46 living swans at Lake Eola, officials said.
                ...

                A total of 32 birds have died at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando since mid-December amid a suspected outbreak of avian influenza, otherwise known as the bird flu, the City of Orlando confirmed to FOX 35.

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                • #38
                  Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

                  Last Modified: January 13, 2026
                  ...
                  State County Collection Date Date Detected HPAI Strain Bird Species WOAH Classification Sampling Method
                  Florida Hernando 12/28/2025 1/7/2026 EA H5 Bald eagle Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                  Florida Broward 12/26/2025 1/7/2026 EA H5 Cooper's hawk Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                  Florida Orange 12/15/2025 1/7/2026 EA/AM H5N1 African gray parrot Captive wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                  ​...

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                  • #39
                    Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

                    Last Modified: January 21, 2026
                    ...
                    ​State County Collection Date Date Detected HPAI Strain Bird Species WOAH Classification Sampling Method
                    Florida Broward 12/13/2025 1/16/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Brevard 1/3/2026 1/16/2026 EA H5 Turkey vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Brevard 1/1/2026 1/16/2026 EA H5 Muscovy duck Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Brevard 1/1/2026 1/16/2026 EA H5 Muscovy duck Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Brevard 12/18/2025 1/16/2026 EA H5 Black skimmer Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Brevard 12/16/2025 1/16/2026 EA H5 Laughing gull Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Brevard 12/10/2025 1/16/2026 EA H5 Lesser scaup Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                    Florida Alachua 12/13/2025 1/16/2026 EA H5 Black-billed magpie Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality

                    ...

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                    • #40
                      Avian flu causes multiple bird deaths at Lake Davis Park; swan volunteers told not to come back

                      Brendan O'Connor
                      Published Jan 22, 2026 | 9:16 PM EST | Updated 2 days ago

                      The City of Orlando issued a public advisory on Thursday, January 22, saying residents reported finding several dead wild birds at Lake Davis Park. The city said it has not independently confirmed that test result, but urged residents to take precautions because avian influenza has been reported in multiple parts of Florida.

                      Those residents were none other than PJ and Andrew Marshall, who you may recall from our in-depth story, “Dead in the Water,” about the recent swan deaths at Lake Eola Park. The Marshalls run a non-profit called Friends of a Feather (Website) that cares for the health needs of non-native waterfowl in and around downtown Orlando. They responded to a sick Pekin duck at Lake Davis on January 18 and worked with Lake Davis residents to have it treated at St. Charles Veterinary Hospital (Website) in Davenport. The vet then confirmed the duck had tested positive for bird flu on January 21. Since then, a Muscovy duck and an Egyptian goose have also passed away at Lake Davis.
                      ...

                      The City of Orlando issued a public advisory on Thursday, January 22, saying residents reported finding several dead wild birds at Lake Davis Park. The city said it has not independently confirmed that test result, but urged residents to take precautions because avian influenza has been reported in multiple parts of Florida. Those residents were […]


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                      Avian flu linked to more bird deaths in downtown Orlando, city says

                      New deaths recorded at Lake Davis Park

                      Local News
                      Brandon Hogan, Digital Journalist
                      Published: January 23, 2026 at 7:51 AM
                      Updated: January 23, 2026 at 8:15 AM​

                      ORLANDO, Fla. – Avian flu was reportedly present in a wild bird found dead at Lake Davis Park in Orlando, prompting a new warning from the city.

                      Residents recently notified the city of the deaths of several wild birds at the park, as well as how one of the birds had tested positive for avian influenza during a necropsy, according to a news release.

                      The city added that it had not independently confirmed the information and was acting out of an abundance of caution.

                      “A top priority of the city is the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the preservation of local wildlife,” the release states. “(...) There are a number of reported cases of Avian Influenza throughout the state. Out of an abundance of caution, residents are urged not to touch or handle any birds that appear unwell or are deceased.”

                      ...
                      Avian flu was reportedly present in a wild bird found dead at Lake Davis Park in Orlando, prompting a new warning from the city.

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                      • #41
                        Source: https://www.wesh.com/article/bird-fl...-dead/70191194


                        Bird flu outbreak confirmed in Winter Springs after ducks found dead, city officials say
                        Updated: 2:37 PM EST Jan 29, 2026
                        Allison Petro
                        Digital Producer

                        WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. —

                        A bird flu outbreak has been reported in Winter Springs after several ducks were found dead at Torcaso Park, according to city officials.

                        Winter Springs city officials contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Seminole County Animal Services for assistance after discovering the dead ducks.

                        During the investigation, it was confirmed that the birds tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.

                        City staff began procedures for the disposal of deceased birds and sanitizing affected areas of the park to help prevent further impacts.

                        Since first identifying the issue at Torcaso Park, city officials said they have been advised of potential outbreaks in other communities within the county.​..

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                        • #42
                          Click image for larger version  Name:	image.png Views:	1 Size:	4.6 KB ID:	1028669City of Winter Springs
                          23h ·


                          On the week of January 26, 2026, City staff discovered the deaths of several ducks at Torcaso Park.

                          Parks staff immediately contacted FWC and Seminole County Animal Services for assistance. After investigation, it was determined that the birds were positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).


                          Under the guidance of both FWC and Seminole County Animal Services, City Staff began procedures for the disposal of deceased birds and sanitizing affected areas of the park, to help prevent further impacts.

                          Since first identifying the issue at Torcaso Park, we have also been advised of potential outbreaks in other communities within the county.

                          We have been advised that while the risk of bird flu transmission to humans remains low, health officials recommend taking simple precautions to help prevent potential exposure.

                          These include avoiding direct contact with sick or deceased birds, not handling wildlife without proper protection, keeping pets away from affected areas, and practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing.

                          Anyone who comes into contact with birds and later experiences flu-like symptoms is encouraged to contact a healthcare provider as a precaution.

                          Remember, ducks and other wild birds should never be handled or touched.

                          The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends allowing the Avian Influenza to run its course, as some birds may build immunity, and estimates a month for the infection to dissipate. We will continue to follow their recommendations, track and monitor any new infections to FWC, and remain vigilant in our efforts to disinfect the park and keep the public informed.

                          A top priority of the City is the safety and well-being of our residents and staff, as well as the preservation of local wildlife.

                          More information on HPAI is available at https://buff.ly/syY6uPa

                          Click image for larger version  Name:	image.png Views:	1 Size:	699.4 KB ID:	1028668

                          On the week of January 26, 2026, City staff discovered the deaths of several ducks at Torcaso Park. Parks staff immediately contacted FWC and Seminole County Animal Services for assistance. After...

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                          • #43
                            Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

                            Last Modified: February 03, 2026

                            State County Collection Date Date Detected HPAI Strain Bird Species WOAH Classification Sampling Method
                            Florida Collier 1/21/2026 1/30/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                            Florida Palm Beach 1/21/2026 1/30/2026 EA H5 Muscovy duck Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                            Florida Palm Beach 1/21/2026 1/30/2026 EA H5 Muscovy duck Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                            Florida Palm Beach 1/16/2026 1/26/2026 EA H5 Green-winged teal Wild bird Hunter harvest
                            Florida Palm Beach 1/16/2026 1/26/2026 EA H5 Green-winged teal Wild bird Hunter harvest
                            Florida Palm Beach 1/16/2026 1/26/2026 EA H5 Green-winged teal Wild bird Hunter harvest

                            ...

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                            • #44
                              Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds

                              Last Modified: February 11, 2026
                              ...
                              State County Collection Date Date Detected HPAI Strain Bird Species WOAH Classification Sampling Method
                              Florida Brevard 1/24/2026 2/9/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Brevard 1/29/2026 2/9/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Orange 1/5/2026 2/5/2026 EA H5 Bald eagle Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Volusia 1/25/2026 2/4/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Volusia 1/25/2026 2/4/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Volusia 1/25/2026 2/4/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Volusia 1/25/2026 2/4/2026 EA H5 Black vulture Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              Florida Hillsborough 1/25/2026 2/3/2026 EA H5 Owl (unidentified) Wild bird Morbidity/Mortality
                              ​...

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                              • #45
                                Orlando awaits end of Avian Flu outbreak as swan deaths halt

                                By Angel Green, WFTV.com
                                February 17, 2026 at 11:32 am EST

                                ORLANDO, Fla. — No new swan deaths have been reported at Lake Eola since Jan. 21, as the City of Orlando waits for an Avian Flu outbreak to pass. The final recorded death occurred on Jan. 21 and involved a wild swan.

                                The City confirms that during the outbreak, 29 mute swans died, leaving 44 birds in the local flock. City officials are following health recommendations to ensure a full month passes without a new case before declaring the virus gone.
                                ...

                                Discover the latest updates on Lake Eola's swan population as Orlando tackles an Avian Flu outbreak, with efforts to ensure bird safety and health.

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