A park in Westchester County, New York, has been temporarily closed after 12 dead Canada geese were discovered in a pond. Authorities are concerned that bird flu might be the cause, prompting caution among local officials and residents.
Park Closure and Investigation
On Wednesday night, officials locked the gates of Carroll Park in Mount Pleasant and posted warning signs urging people to stay away. The decision followed a disturbing discovery over the weekend when Mount Pleasant Police Chief Paul Oliva found a dozen geese dead on the ice and in the water of the partially frozen pond.
“This is definitely uncommon, and we should be cautious about how we handle this,” Oliva stated.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is conducting tests to determine the cause of death. While officials suspect avian flu, they are awaiting confirmation.
Rising Concerns Over Bird Flu
Avian flu has been spreading across the country, primarily affecting birds and other animals. However, according to the New York State Department of Health, 66 human cases of the virus were reported in the U.S. in 2024, with one fatality.
To prevent potential health risks, Mount Pleasant officials are advising the public to avoid contact with dead birds.
“There’s always a possibility of picking up something, whether on your shoes or through pets,” said Mount Pleasant Town Supervisor Carl Fulgenzi. “Especially with dogs, they could be at risk if they come into contact with feces from the geese.”
Measures to Prevent Further Contamination
Authorities have confirmed that the dead geese were found only in the pond area and not in other parts of the park, such as the children’s playground. However, live geese were still present in the park on Wednesday.
To prevent further contamination and reduce the number of birds gathering in the area, officials plan to install a laser device designed to deter geese from returning to the pond.
Park Closure Duration and Cleanup Efforts
It is unclear how long Carroll Park will remain closed. The reopening will depend on test results and the extent of the cleanup required to ensure public safety. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and will update the community once more information is available.
The discovery of dead Canada geese in Carroll Park has raised serious concerns, with authorities taking precautionary measures to prevent any potential health risks. While officials await test results to confirm the cause, they are urging residents to avoid the area and take necessary precautions. With bird flu cases on the rise, public awareness and caution are essential to ensure safety. The situation remains under investigation, and updates will follow as officials determine the next steps.
