Nearly 50 birds fall from the sky in Boston
Nearly 50 grackle-type birds were seen falling from the sky.
Health officials are investigating after 47 birds fell out of the sky in the Dorchester neighbourhood of Boston.
The Animal League of Boston (ARL) was called out to Bakersfield Street on September 8 as dozens of birds were seen falling from the sky. A resident's cat also received emergency treatment but sadly could not be saved.
In total, 47 grackle-type birds were observed falling to the ground, thrashing, unable to fly or completely unresponsive.
A dozen of the birds were found dead at the scene, eight passed away shortly after rescue and 12 had to be humanely euthanised. Fifteen birds remain in good condition and are being sent to Tufts Wildlife Center in Grafton, Massachusetts, for further treatment.
Pet owners are being urged to be cautious while walking their dogs and keep animals away from the area.
ARL is working with Boston health officials to help determine the cause of the incident. According to local media, it is currently uncertain whether the deaths were intentional, or caused by environmental poisoning or a virus.
Julia Gunn from the Boston Public Health Commission told WCVB there is no indication of a threat to humans at this stage.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
