In brief
A dozen swans in Lake Eola, Orlando, have died under mysterious circumstances, with officials suspecting bird flu as the potential cause. The city's veterinarians are currently unavailable to conduct immediate evaluations due to the holiday period, leaving the community anxious for answers. These swans have been cherished symbols of Orlando for over a century.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — In a shocking turn of events, a dozen of the beloved swans residing in downtown Orlando have succumbed to unexplained deaths, prompting officials to consider the possibility of bird flu. According to City Commissioner Patty Sheehan, the deaths seem non-suspicious. Prior to these incidents, around fifty swans called Lake Eola home, a park that has been their sanctuary for over a hundred years.The last known outbreak of bird flu at the park occurred in February 2024, and now the recent deaths have sparked concern among residents and city officials alike. Given that these fatalities occurred during the busy holiday season, specialized veterinarians were unavailable for immediate evaluations. In response, the deceased swans are currently being kept in a secure location to allow for necropsies and determine the exact cause of death, as Commissioner Sheehan stated, We can’t be certain until tests are completed.Lake Eola's swans are not only cherished wildlife but also cultural icons of central Florida, frequently depicted in street art and offering visitors the experience of renting swan-shaped pedal boats. As the investigation unfolds, the community waits with bated breath for answers regarding the fate of its iconic birds.
