Dozens of dead birds found along Coney Island shore as bird flu spreads

"It is a public danger. Right now, throughout the city, wherever there's a body of water, you're going to be seeing birds sick and dying and dead. This winter has been especially difficult for birds, with snow covering food sources and ice forming over waterways, leaving many birds weakened."

"They should remove all the dead carcasses. That's got to be a health violation. Other animals might eat them and spread disease. If you see a sick or dying bird, don't let your dog or cat near it."

"If a dead bird is found on private property, residents should wear gloves and a mask before handling it and put the carcass inside three plastic bags. Always disinfect any surfaces that come into contact with it."

A Coney Island resident discovered dozens of dead birds washed ashore at Coney Island Creek Park and reported the finding to the Parks Department with a 311 complaint, which was subsequently canceled. The situation raises health concerns, as decomposing bird carcasses could spread disease through scavenging animals. New York City is experiencing a surge in highly pathogenic avian influenza, with birds becoming sick and dying throughout waterways citywide. Winter conditions have weakened birds by covering food sources and freezing waterways. While bird flu poses minimal direct human transmission risk, it threatens pets. Experts recommend reporting dead or sick birds to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and using protective equipment when handling carcasses on private property.

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