Deaths of a large number of swans at the Lough in Cork city may have been caused by botulism.
The Lough a popular recreation area and wildlife sanctuary in Cork city is a freshwater lake which is home to many different types of birds.
The remains of up to thirty mute swans as well as ducks and carp were removed from the lake today for testing. Botulism a potentially fatal bacterial illness may be the cause of their demise.
A sad day for Ted O’Connor from the Cork Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (CSPCA), as there is no hope for these birds.
It’s a pity in their longevity they usually live to be fifty or sixty years old.
Local resident Annie Hoey raised the alarm after noticing that something was amiss on the lake.
There were more and more sick swans.
Chief Veterinary Officer at Cork City Council Diarmuid Dooge explains that a combination of hot weather, low water levels and overcrowding on the lake resulted in an outbreak of the deadly bacteria,
These spores can overwinter survive freezing and drying but when conditions are right they multiply.
Members of the public and their pets are not at risk if they do not come in direct contact with the water or drink it. Staff from Cork City Council will also begin aerating the stagnant water tomorrow, which they hope will alleviate the problem.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 7 July 2009. The reporter is Jennie O’Sullivan.
