Don't feed wildlife and report dead or dying waterfowl in the area

The Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center of Orange County, Mission Viejo Animal Services and other agencies are reminding the public to not feed wildlife, which is illegal, and to report dead or dying waterfowl to help prevent an avian botulism outbreak in Orange County.

The agencies conducted a survey of Aliso Creek on Sunday and discovered birds affected with avian botulism, which is caused by a neurotoxin that can cause paralysis and possible death in the animals.

Sick and dead birds were found in Lake Forest. However, due to conditions favorable to avian botulism throughout Orange County, a rapid spread of the disease is possible. Poor water quality results in algal blooms that make conditions ripe for botulism and creates a food source for maggots, which are then consumed by birds.

Mission Viejo Animal Services is working with Wetlands and Wildlife, Orange County Animal Care, OC Parks, California Department Fish and Wildlife, the City of Laguna Beach and other land managers to monitor this situation. The City will provide updates as they become available as well as the steps taken to prevent a mass outbreak.  

"This is also a good time to remind everyone not to feed wildlife "¦ it's unlawful, and the food we leave can contribute to the conditions leading to a botulism outbreak," said Animal Services Manager Michelle Claud-Clemente.

If you see dead or dying waterfowl, call 949-470-3045.