12 swans found dead at Lake Eola in Orlando spark avian flu outbreak concerns

Published: Monday, December 29, 2025 at 8:38 pm

Avian Flu Concerns Rise as Swans Die at Orlando's Lake Eola

Orlando, Florida – Authorities are investigating a potential avian flu outbreak at Lake Eola Park after the discovery of twelve dead swans in the past week. Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan confirmed the deaths, noting that the first two swans were found on December 23rd, with the number increasing over the following five days.

While the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed, officials suspect avian influenza. The swans are currently being held in a secure location, awaiting necropsies to determine the definitive cause. Due to the timing of the deaths over the holidays, specialized veterinary experts were initially unavailable.

This isn't the first instance of avian influenza affecting the park's bird population. In 2024, city staff discovered several dead birds at Lake Eola Park, which were later confirmed to be linked to avian influenza.

In response to the recent swan deaths, the city is advising the public to take precautions to minimize potential exposure. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid direct contact with birds at Lake Eola Park, observing them only from a distance. Additionally, the public is advised to avoid contact with bird excrement and to clean shoes before entering homes if contamination is suspected.

BNN's Perspective: The situation at Lake Eola highlights the ongoing threat of avian influenza and the importance of proactive measures to protect both wildlife and public health. While the confirmed cases in the past year are concerning, the city's response, including testing and public advisories, demonstrates a commitment to managing the situation responsibly. Continued vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines are crucial to mitigating the spread of the virus.

Keywords: avian flu, swan deaths, Lake Eola, Orlando, bird flu, avian influenza, public health, park, precautions, necropsy

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