Hundreds of red-breasted mergansers have been found either dead or sick along Lake Michigan in Chicago and the northern suburbs. Officials suspect a highly contagious bird flu outbreak may be the cause of the illnesses found in the mergansers, a species of diving duck that winters in the Great Lakes region.
**Concerns Arise Over Suspected Bird Flu Outbreak**
Chicago Bird Collision Monitors, a volunteer conservation group, began receiving reports of “large numbers” of sick mergansers along the shores from Hyde Park to Wilmette. Annette Prince, the organization’s director, noted that two of the largest concentrations of sick mergansers were found at North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach. Approximately 200 to 300 infected mergansers were reported to the organization over the weekend.
This recent development marks the first time a large number of mergansers has been suspected of bird flu infections. The virus has been on the rise in waterfowl and other birds across Illinois and the U.S. Bald eagles and thousands of hens have already fallen victim to the disease, indicating a concerning spread.
**Expert Insights and Concerns**
Annette Prince expressed concern about the increasing number of mergansers showing symptoms of bird flu. She emphasized that seeing these birds on land is a clear indicator of distress, as they typically avoid land unless they are too weak to fly or navigate the waters. Symptoms of the virus include weakness, tremors, respiratory issues, and neurological problems.
Prince highlighted the threat posed by the virus in cold weather, as it thrives in such conditions. The worry is that the outbreak could continue to spread to other species and bird populations if not contained promptly. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported human cases of bird flu in individuals working with livestock or poultry, with one reported death.
**National Impact and Economic Consequences**
The CDC reported more than 11,000 wild bird infections and nearly 150 million affected chickens, turkeys, and other birds across the country since the outbreak started in 2022. The disease has forced farmers to cull millions of birds monthly, causing U.S. egg prices to soar. This outbreak is not only a threat to wildlife but also has significant economic implications.
As the suspected bird flu outbreak continues to unfold, experts are working to contain the spread and protect both wildlife and human populations. The impact of the disease on bird populations, agriculture, and public health underscores the importance of vigilance and coordinated efforts to mitigate its effects.
