Community Corner

Bird Deaths at Peninsula Pond Linked to Avian Cholera

U.S. Fish and Wildlife service believes bird deaths are linked to avian cholera deaths previously reported in Hayward.

—By Bay City News Service

A popular bird-watching pond in Redwood City will be drained this weekend after a suspected outbreak of avian cholera killed an estimated 150 ducks, officials with the South Bayside System Authority said this week.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife service believes the duck deaths reported at the pond at the SBSA treatment plant at 1400 Radio Road are linked to avian cholera deaths previously reported in Hayward, although the cause of death has not yet been confirmed, SBSA officials said Thursday.

The pond, technically a "landscape impoundment," was created in 1998 to eliminate dust from the area, which was harmful to the plant's equipment, according to SBSA officials.

It is fed by a flow of recycled water from the treatment facility.

"Over the years this body of water has met the goal of eliminating dust from the dry, bare land next to the treatment plant and has become a popular spot for bird watchers," said SBSA Manager Dan Child.

The pond is noted for its large number of birds and easy access, even for those with disabilities, according to the Sequoia Audubon Society's web site.

Avian cholera does not harm humans but can kill waterfowl, gulls and other species, according to fish and wildlife officials.

Members of the public who see any large numbers of dead birds, especially if they appear fresh and have no obvious cause of death, should report them to Cheryl_strong@fws.gov or Rachel_tertes@fws.gov.

Copyright © 2014 by Bay City News, Inc. -- Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.

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