In the heart of downtown Orlando, Florida, a troubling mystery has unfolded as twelve of the city’s cherished swans have died under unclear circumstances. While the exact cause remains undetermined, officials are leaning towards the possibility that bird flu could be the culprit.

Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan took to social media on Monday to assure the public that there appears to be no foul play involved in the deaths at Lake Eola. Prior to this disheartening event, the park was home to approximately sixty swans. The last instance of bird flu affecting the swans occurred back in February 2024.

The timing of these deaths during the holiday season has posed a challenge, as the city’s specialized veterinarians are currently unavailable for immediate assessment. In the meantime, the deceased swans have been securely stored, awaiting necropsies that will hopefully shed light on the cause of their demise.

Commissioner Sheehan emphasized, “We can’t be certain until tests are completed,” underscoring the need for patience as experts work to provide answers.

“We can’t be certain until tests are completed,” Sheehan said.

The swans have been at Lake Eola for more than a century and are symbols of the central Florida city. They have been painted on street murals at city intersections, and visitors can rent swan-shaped pedal-boats at the park.