More than 60 birds suspected of being infected with bird flu were found dead in a Plymouth pond, authorities announced on Sunday.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as H5N1 avian influenza, is the suspected cause of the deaths of more than 60 birds found in Billington Sea, including Canadian geese and swans, according to a statement released by the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife.
People are rarely infected with bird flu, but could be at risk if they have close, prolonged contact with sick or dead birds, authorities say. They urge the public to avoid handling sick or dead birds and to report any sightings to a local animal control officer. Pet owners in affected areas are encouraged to keep their pets indoors and away from wildlife.
The city of Plymouth said in a statement that the dead birds and several other sick birds were safely assessed and removed by authorities around 9 a.m. Sunday. The state will begin laboratory testing of the dead birds to confirm the cause of death, according to the release.
Avian flu outbreaks have affected small flocks of geese in other areas of Massachusetts in recent weeks, according to the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife. Avian flu has also been reported in wildlife in other areas of New England, including a flock of birds in a yard in Franklin County, Vermont, in December.
Authorities are urging anyone who encounters five or more sick or deceased birds in one location to report it online at mass.gov/reportbirds, or by calling the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources at (617) 626-1795.
Collin Robisheaux can be contacted at collin.robisheaux@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @ColRobisheaux.