First, it was the bears prompting residents to take down their bird feeders. How, wildlife officials are asking residents to take down bird feeders - and bird baths - to head off a deadly, mystery disease affecting other areas of the country.
According to a press release from Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, in late May, wildlife managers in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky began receiving reports of sick and dying birds with eye swelling and crusty discharge, as well as neurological signs.
More recently, additional reports have been received from Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. While the majority of affected birds are reported to be fledgling common grackles, blue jays, European starlings and American robins, other species of songbirds have been reported as well. No definitive cause of illness or death has been determined at this time.
To Stop Spread Of Avian Disease, Mass Officials Ask Residents To Put Away Birdbaths, Feeders
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What to do when you see bears, coyotes, and baby animals
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By Ryan Trowbridge
CHICOPEE, Massachusetts (WGGB, WSHM-LD) Western Mass News has heard from viewers who are concerned about a recent uptick in black bear sightings around their homes.
Across social media, area residents are expressing their concerns after seeing large bears in their yards. Some said their pets had some pretty close encounters with them. Suzanne Westscott of Chicopee is concerned for her safety. She goes down to the river very early in the morning and worries she might run into a bear.
Marion Larson is with the Massachusetts Division of Fishery and Wildlife. She said they always see an increase in bears during this time of year.