Reporting distressed and deceased birds

The City of Kingston is closely monitoring reports of sick birds following a recent investigation of deceased and distressed Canada geese at Lake Ontario Park and Elevator Bay along Front Road. Staff observed signs of sickness and the presence of approximately 30 dead birds.

Although the cause of death has not been confirmed, the City is asking community members to report any sightings of distressed or deceased birds to the Ontario Regional Centre of the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1-866-673-4781 or online at CWHC.WildlifeSubmissions.org. Birds in distress can also be reported to Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre at (613) 354-0264.

City staff have reported these local instances to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC). CWHC will complete testing and share the results in approximately two weeks.

Clean up at Lake Ontario Park and Elevator Bay is well underway, with staff following all recommended safety measures to dispose of the carcasses. The City will continue to monitor and dispose of deceased birds found at waterfront parks.

Please do not handle sick, injured, or dead wild birds. If handling wild birds or other wildlife is unavoidable, wear gloves or use a doubled plastic bag and avoid contact with blood, body fluids and feces. You should then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizer.

Protect your pets by keeping your cats indoors and dogs on a leash when out for a walk.