Scientists investigate mysterious songbird deaths in Delaware

State and federal wildlife experts and wildlife rehabilitators are investigating reports in at least six mid-Atlantic and central states, including Delaware, of sick and dying songbirds stricken by an unknown disorder characterized by swollen eyes with crusty discharge, as well as neurological signs such as erratic flight and stumbling.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has observed similar symptoms in Delaware’s avian population, and more than 50 dead birds have been reported.

Juvenile birds appear to be more affected than adults, with European starlings, blue jays and common grackles as the species most associated with the debilitating condition. Investigating agencies including DNREC are working cooperatively with animal health laboratories to find what’s behind this event, with Delaware’s samples sent to the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory in New Bolton Center, Pa., but no definitive cause has been identified to date.

Although the cause of the event is not yet known, wildlife health experts believe congregating birds may contribute to its spread. Federal and state wildlife experts recommend anyone who keeps bird feeders or bird baths in their home landscape take the following precautions:

• Cease feeding birds at feeders and providing water in bird baths
• Before reactivating bird feeders and baths when it is deemed safe by animal health experts to do so, clean them with a 10 percent bleach solution
• Avoid handling wild birds, and wear disposable gloves if it is necessary to handle a bird
• Keep domestic pets away from sick and dead wild birds.

If residents observe a live wild bird exhibiting the symptoms described above, they may contact Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research at 302-737-9543.

If residents find a dead wild bird they suspect displayed any of the above-mentioned symptoms, they can contact the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife at 302-735-3600.

For more information, go to tristatebird.org.