In Orlando, officials have confirmed a concerning development at Lake Eola, where 11 birds, including nine swans, an anhinga, and an ibis, have been found dead. The cause of these deaths remains a mystery as investigations are underway.

City Commissioner Patty Sheehan spoke to News 6, clarifying that the number of deceased birds is lower than initially reported. “The situation is not as dire as first believed, which is a relief. However, there’s been a fair amount of misinformation circulating,” Sheehan noted.

In response to these unsettling events, the city of Orlando is collaborating with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, alongside a local veterinary team, to uncover the reasons behind the birds’ demise. Although this investigative process is crucial, officials caution that it may take several weeks to receive the necropsy results.

Sheehan expressed her understanding of the public’s eagerness for answers. “Initially, we anticipated results by Friday, but now we’re looking at a potential 30-day wait. I know people are anxious for updates,” she explained.

“I mean, they had said we’d get it by Friday. Now they’re saying 30 days… I understand that people want the information now,” Sheehan added.

Park visitors said the news is upsetting. John Moore, who recently moved to the area, called the deaths “really sad” and recalled attending a bird roundup at the lake just weeks ago.

“I cannot imagine coming to Lake Eola Park and not seeing the swans and all the birds,” another visitor, Andre Alvz, said,

Some, however, said the deaths are a natural part of life.

“It’s Florida, okay? There are animals everywhere living and dying,” said one man, who declined to give his name.

As a precaution, city crews are sanitizing and cleaning areas around the lake every morning from 4 a.m. to 6 a.m. Sheehan said the city is treating the situation as a worst-case scenario with avian flu to protect the public.

Officials are urging visitors not to touch wildlife or feed birds until the investigation is complete.