(Emmetsburg)– The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says Avian Cholera has killed hundreds of birds at a lake in Palo Alto county.
Officials say since April 9th they’ve removed more than 200 ducks and geese from Rush Lake. Lab test show the birds died from Avian Cholera.
The disease is contagious and can kill poultry and migratory waterfowl within six to 48 hours. It’s not considered a high risk to humans.
Birds can get infected when they feed in contaminated waters or by direct contact with other birds that have the bacteria.
Wildlife officials say they’ve lowered Rush Lake’s water level to deter birds. They say fewer dead birds have been found as a result.
Officials will continue to check the lake and area wetlands until no dead birds are found.
Anyone who finds dead waterfowl should contact Alan Hancock or Guy Zenner at the Iowa DNR Waterfowl Research Station in Clear Lake at (641) 357-3517.
