Dead geese and ducks found at Quarterman Park's Duck Pond. The city suspects bird flu and asks visitors to leave sick birds alone and call Animal Control at 843-740-2815.

The City of North Charleston has issued a public health notice for Quarterman Park’s Duck Pond in Park Circle after dead geese and ducks were found there. The city said avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is the suspected cause.

The city posted the notice on its Facebook page Monday. Its text was carried by WCIV ABC News 4 and The Post and Courier. The cause had not been confirmed by a test result as of Thursday.

What the city asked

“With seasonal bird migration underway, cases of avian influenza can increase,” the city said.

If you come across a dead or sick bird at the pond, the city asked that you leave it undisturbed and notify North Charleston Animal Control at 843-740-2815. The notice also asks people to:

  • avoid touching or handling dead or sick birds
  • keep dogs and other pets away from dead or visibly ill wildlife
  • not let pets eat dead birds or other wildlife

“While the risk to dogs is considered low, the virus can affect other animals and, in some cases, humans,” the city said.

Backyard poultry owners “should monitor their flocks for signs of illness and follow guidance from state animal health officials,” according to the notice. The city said it will keep monitoring the situation and share more information as it becomes available.

How serious is it for people?

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says on its bird flu situation summary, last updated Oct. 15, that “the current public health risk is low.” The U.S. Department of Agriculture tracks detections in wild birds on its avian influenza page.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources handles wild bird die-offs in the state. Its website could not be reached Thursday, so we could not confirm whether testing on the birds is complete. We will update this story when a result is published.

What it means for you

  • The park is open. The notice does not close Quarterman Park or the pond. It asks visitors to keep away from dead and sick birds.
  • Walking a dog there? Keep it on a leash and away from the water’s edge and any bird carcass.
  • Feeding the ducks? The park’s own rule is to use its feeders only. Do not pick up or move a bird that looks sick.
  • Keep chickens at home? Watch your flock for signs of illness.
  • Found a bird somewhere else in the city? The same Animal Control number applies. It is on our who to call at City Hall list.

Quarterman Park is a few blocks from the circle in Park Circle. The pond is used for fishing and bird watching. Other parks with ponds and trails are in our parks and trails guide.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I find a dead or sick bird at Quarterman Park?

Leave it where it is and call North Charleston Animal Control at 843-740-2815. The city asked visitors not to touch or handle dead or sick birds.

Is bird flu at the Duck Pond a danger to people or dogs?

The city said the risk to dogs is considered low but the virus can affect other animals and, in some cases, humans. The CDC says the current public health risk is low.