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The report from the Vet has, based on circumstantial evidence and signs that were indicative of drowning not ruled out Avian Botulism as a cause for the death. Multiple tissue samples were collected from various parts of the birds such as the liver, the lung, the pancreas, the brain and other.
Although the deaths of birds has decreased substantially.

What is Avian Botulism?
A globally accepted definition: “Avian botulism is a paralytic disease caused by ingestion of a toxin produced by the bacteria, Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria is widespread in soil and requires warm temperatures, a protein source and an anaerobic (no oxygen) environment in order to become active and produce toxin. Decomposing vegetation and invertebrates combined with warm temperatures can provide ideal conditions for the botulism bacteria to activate and produce toxin. There are several types of toxin produced by strains of this bacteria; birds are most commonly affected by type C and to a lesser extent type E”.
Furthermore “according to the US National Wildlife Health Center, birds either ingest the toxin directly or may eat invertebrates (e.g. chironomids, fly larvae) containing the toxin. Invertebrates are not affected by the toxin and store it in their body. A cycle develops in a botulism outbreak when fly larvae (maggots), feed on animal carcasses and ingest toxin. Ducks that consume toxin-laden maggots can develop botulism after eating as few as 3 or 4 maggots”.

Avian botulism is not transferable to humans.

Where to now?
The Lakes Area in Wilderness is still safe to visit despite the recent deaths of migratory birds. Various activities can still be enjoyed including visiting bird hides in the Wilderness section (Malachite & Rondevlei).

Media and the public will be informed of the progress of this matter.