Dead birds on Florida beaches have experts worried about avian flu

While no cases have been confirmed, the nonprofit Florida Wildlife Hospital said samples of dead birds found in Brevard County were sent for testing.

The organization said large-scale migration from northern regions could be bringing the virus into the state.

"It spreads so easily, and if they bring it from up north when they come down here, it certainly is a concern. So, we always keep an eye out," Frampton said.

She said the sickness affects the brain and that neurological issues have been noted in the past. Avian flu last broke out in Florida in 2022, when thousands of birds died.

"They could not keep their head upright. They're swimming in circles, maybe falling over, just really messed up their neurological system," Frampton said.

Michael Shay, a local beachgoer, found several dead birds lying within several feet of each other on a beach last week.

"It's very sickening, very disheartening," he said.

Shay said he saw dead pelicans, seagulls and gannets.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials told Fox Orlando that avian flu was not easily transmissible from birds to people but urged the public to avoid contact with sick or dead birds while the situation was under review.

She said the swans' bodies are being stored so necropsies can be performed.