Bird Flu and Botulism Ravage Klamath Basin Wildlife Refuge

Thousands of Birds Dead, Sparking Concerns

A tragic avian die-off is unfolding in the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex, with botulism and bird flu teaming up to claim thousands of lives.

Since summer began, at least 5,000 birds have perished, raising fears of another major outbreak. Supervisory biologist John Vradenburg suspects a dual outbreak, with botulism hitting hardest due to stagnant water conditions after a heatwave.

Botulism and Bird Flu Strike Again

Avian botulism, a paralyzing disease, has already taken hold in the refuge complex. The Upper Pacific Flyway, which hosts the Klamath Basin and Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuges, is also experiencing a wave of avian botulism.

Additionally, the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu has been detected in the area, adding to the devastation.