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More than 20 birds found on Ogunquit Beach likely died of avian flu
State officials warn that the risk for animals is high and urge residents to take precautions to limit the spread of the virus.
Nearly 25 geese and ducks found Wednesday on Ogunquit Beach likely died of avian flu, according to town and state officials.
Preliminary assessments suggest that the death may be attributed to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly known as avian or bird flu, town officials said in a notice to residents Wednesday. The dead geese were removed and disposed of following proper health and safety protocols, according to the town.
Fire Chief Russell Osgood said the birds — roughly 20 geese and several ducks — were found along the river side of the beach behind the dunes. A few of them were on the main beach.
Since early January, 19 birds have tested positive for avian influenza in the state. All of those cases were in York and Cumberland counties and mainly along the coast from Freeport to Kittery, said Mark Latti, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Ogunquit reported the dead birds to the state before they were collected and disposed of by Osgood, members of the police and public works department, and the local animal control officer. Osgood said everyone wore gloves and masks while they double bagged the birds, which were then taken to be incinerated.
“The cause of death for these geese were consistent with avian influenza. As avian influenza has already been documented in the town and area, there was no need to test these birds,” Latti said. “We are concentrating testing in areas where the disease has yet to be documented this year.”
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