North Fort Myers Mourns Loss of Eaglets to Highly Contagious Bird Flu
NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. — The community of North Fort Myers is grieving the loss of two beloved bald eagle chicks, E24 and E25, who succumbed to the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of bird flu. The tragic deaths were confirmed by the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), marking a devastating turn for the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, which has been monitoring the nest for 13 years.
The eaglets, born to parents M15 and F23, had been a source of joy for viewers who watched them grow via the live-streamed nest.Though, their lives were cut short after M15 brought an infected bird into the nest as food. both eaglets consumed the contaminated prey and died within four days.
“Raptors who develop clinical signs have about a 90 to 100 percent mortality rate,” saeid Jessica Comolli, CROW’s research and Medical Director. “So it is a very, very contagious, very pathogenic disease.”
the first signs of trouble appeared when E24 was found covered in blood, likely from a broken blood feather on its left wing. Shortly after,E25 began experiencing seizures,struggled to stay upright,and eventually fell from the nest.
The Threat to Humans
While avian flu primarily affects birds, the centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that humans can also be infected. The first U.S. death from H5N1 was reported in Louisiana earlier this month. In the last year, 66 human cases have been reported in the U.S., with over 950 cases worldwide. About half of these cases have been fatal.
“This strain has been shown to infect humans,” comolli added. “While the general public is at less risk, individuals who work closely with infected animals—as well as those who are immunocompromised—are at a higher risk.”
A Growing Concern in Southwest Florida
CROW has reported an increase in bird flu cases in Southwest Florida over the past few years, with the last confirmed case occurring just last month. The Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, which has never encountered such a case before, is now on high alert.
“In the 13 years that we have been monitoring this camera, we’ve never had a case like this before that we certainly know of,” said co-founder Ginnie Pritchett-McSpadden. “I do know CROW has been reporting there have been other cases in the state.”
Precautions and Next Steps
Wildlife experts are urging the public to take precautions if they encounter an injured bird or any animal that may be infected. CROW advises avoiding direct skin contact, wearing gloves and a mask, and contacting CROW or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for guidance.
Simultaneously occurring, CROW and the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam team are closely monitoring M15 and F23 for any signs of illness and will intervene if necessary.
Key Facts at a glance
| Details | Information |
|———————————-|———————————————————————————|
| Eaglets Affected | E24 and E25 |
| Cause of Death | Highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of bird flu |
| Source of Infection | contaminated prey brought into the nest by M15 |
| human Risk | Low for the general public; higher for those working with infected animals |
| Recent Cases in Florida | Increase reported by CROW; last case confirmed last month |
| precautions | Avoid direct contact; wear gloves and mask; contact CROW or FWC for assistance |
The loss of E24 and E25 serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by avian flu, not only to wildlife but also to humans. As the community mourns, experts continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and caution in the face of this highly contagious disease.
For more information on how to protect yourself and report potential cases, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or contact CROW directly.