DEC warns waterfowl may be infected
October 25,2006
(Albany, NY - AP) - Hunters and anglers along the shores of eastern Lake Ontario are being advised to use caution when handling waterfowl or fish that appear sick.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation says it's investigating the deaths of dozens of water birds in the area and are testing them for type E botulism.
Water birds infected by botulism become paralyzed and can't fly.
In 2000, the DEC says thousands of water birds were found washed up on the shoreline and tested positive for type E botulism. Outbreaks have occurred on Lake Erie every year since.
Eating contaminated birds or fish can be harmful to humans. No human illnesses have been reported.
Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
