Dead birds found across town, several at the Meridian, are being tested for bird flu. No results yet. Keep pets away and report birds to Animal Control at (843) 743-7200.

Some of the dead birds found in Mount Pleasant over the past week have been sent for bird flu testing. The town has had several reports of sick or dead birds across the community. On Tuesday morning, Oct. 20, one report involved multiple birds at the Meridian.

The town announced it in a public health notice posted Oct. 20. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is running the tests to find out whether avian influenza is present.

No results had been published as of Thursday. The town said it will share more information as test results come in.

What the town said

The notice does not say the birds had bird flu. “While the presence of dead birds does not necessarily indicate bird flu, the virus can spread more readily during migration season,” the town said. Fall migration is underway.

The town said the risk to dogs is considered low. It said avian influenza “can affect other animals and, in some cases, humans,” and that people who keep backyard poultry should be especially cautious.

The town said it is coordinating with the appropriate state agencies and will keep monitoring.

What it means for you

The town asked residents to take these steps:

  • Do not touch dead or visibly sick birds, and do not try to pick them up or remove them.
  • Keep pets away from dead birds and from any wild animal that looks ill.
  • Do not let pets eat or touch dead wildlife.
  • If you keep chickens or other backyard poultry, watch them for signs of illness and follow guidance from state animal health officials.
  • Report dead or sick birds to Mount Pleasant Animal Control at (843) 743-7200.

Dog owners heading to the parks this week can find the off-leash dog parks and the leash law on our dog-friendly Mount Pleasant page and our parks and trails guide. For other town departments, see who to call at the Town of Mount Pleasant.

We will update this story when the town or the Department of Natural Resources publishes the test results.