North Charleston Issues Alert After Dead Birds Found

Officials suspect avian influenza at Quarterman's Pond following the discovery of several deceased waterfowl.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Bird Watching

North Charleston Issues Alert After Dead Birds Found

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The North Charleston Police Department has issued a public health notice after dead geese and ducks were recovered from Quarterman's Pond. City officials are currently monitoring the site for further signs of avian influenza.

Why it matters

The discovery coincides with seasonal bird migration, which is known to trigger an uptick in avian influenza cases among local waterfowl populations. Monitoring the pond is a proactive step to manage the potential spread of the virus within the community.

Officials identified suspected avian influenza as the primary cause for the bird deaths at Quarterman's Pond. North Charleston Animal Control is managing all reports of sick or deceased birds in the area.

The players

North Charleston Police Department

This municipal law enforcement agency is responsible for public safety and the issuance of health alerts within North Charleston.

North Charleston Animal Control

This city division handles the collection and management of animal-related public health concerns and reports of wildlife in distress.

The details

The North Charleston Police Department issued the notice after discovering the deceased waterfowl in the pond, which is located in Quarterman Park along Buist Avenue. Residents are being asked to assist by reporting any further sightings of sick or dead birds to local animal control officers.

October 20, 2026: Public health notice issued for Quarterman's Pond.

Culture Shift

The city's response follows protocols established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Wild Bird Surveillance Program to contain the transmission of avian viruses. This aligns with broader shifts in urban wildlife management where municipal agencies take an active role in tracking zoonotic disease indicators during peak migratory seasons.

Residents should avoid contact with any sick or dead waterfowl discovered near Quarterman Park to prevent accidental exposure to potential pathogens. Please report any concerning sightings directly to North Charleston Animal Control rather than handling the animals.

The takeaway

Public health notices serve as a reminder to maintain distance from wild animals during peak migration periods when virus activity is often higher. Staying informed and reporting unusual wildlife activity helps city authorities manage local ecological health effectively.