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Bautzen District Investigates 100 Swan Deaths at Olba-See After Recovery Operation

Laboratory testing will determine whether avian influenza linked to a recent case in nearby Hohendubrau is to blame, with existing poultry restrictions remaining in force.

Overview

  • County officials confirmed roughly 100 dead swans and one dead heron at Olba-See in the municipality of Malschwitz.
  • Firefighters using motorboats recovered the carcasses on Tuesday, raising the tally well above an initial report of about 40.
  • Samples are being analyzed for avian influenza, and authorities say any further recovery work or containment steps will depend on how the situation develops.
  • A housing requirement for kept birds in Malschwitz and Weißenberg and a countywide ban on poultry exhibitions and markets have been in place since January 12.
  • Observers report many mallards on the lake’s ice‑free areas appear healthy, and officials say new protection zones are not planned unless domestic poultry are affected.