Lake Apopka - The Bird Deaths - What May Have Happened

What May Have Happened

After the purchase of the muck farms was completed, the farm equipment auctioned and the restoration area was fully under the management of St. Johns River Water Management District, a decision to flood a section of the former muck farms was made.

This flooding took place during a time of year when thousands of water fowl were migrating south to winter and during what was normally a growing (and dry season) in the farms. The flooded area attracted thousands of birds, who stopped in the newly discovered wetland and began feeding.

The bird count was so high that record numbers of a large variety of bird species were being observed. Bird watching at the restoration area was promoted by the local audubon.

Birds began dying in the restoration area in the fall of 1998. The cause was not officially determined but it was reported that agencies suspected that pesticides were finding their way through the food chain and the birds feeding on possibly contaminated fish were being poisoned.

In February 1999 it was reported, "Chemicals commonly found in pesticides are killing birds and fish near Lake Apopka, and people should avoid the area and its wildlife, federal officials said Wednesday...Fish and Wildlife officials said Wednesday that they believe the birds are dying after they eat fish contaminated with the chemicals. Wildlife experts believe at least another 50 birds have died after leaving the site. Officials are asking pilots to avoid flying low over Lake Apopka, which could cause birds to scatter into the danger zone." Orlando Sentinel, 2/18/99.

The following notice was published by SJRWMD on March 16, 1999: