Hundreds of dead birds turn up in Broward and Miami-Dade, smoky skies to blame

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (WSVN) -- The sight of dead birds falling from the smoky, hazy skies due to the recent wildfires has residents concerned.

Hundreds of dead yellow warblers have been spotted all over the area of Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. Many of the birds have been seen either falling from the sky or flying into windows before they were found perished. "I was sitting out in front of the shop having a cup of coffee when it flew into the window and fell down and died," said John Cologne. "When I got up and looked down the sidewalk, there was seven more dead ones."

The birds are dying from either the impact of flying into glass or suffering from head and neck injuries. Dr. Daren Joseph has encountered and helped many of the injured birds that have flown into the windows of his chiropractor clinic in Fort Lauderdale. He's been able to apply his chiropractic skills to help the birds. "Half of the birds I'm actually able to adjust their neck and save their life," he said.

Many concerned residents called wildlife centers to report the dead bird sightings. "It must be hundreds of calls we're getting," said Wendy Fox of the Pelican Harbor Sea Bird Station. Bird experts blame the recent smoky skies from the wildfires, which disorient the birds and contribute to the numerous fatalities. "That seems to make them more susceptible to hitting windows, they just seem to be landing all over," Fox said.

"We treat the concussions. We treat them with pain medication, anti-inflammatory drugs," explained Dr. Stephen Harch of the Wildlife Care Center. As the disoriented birds continue to fly into windows, more and more are coming to the aid and are trying to help with the birds' injuries. "It's funny, I've been treating more birds than people," said Dr. Joseph.

Experts advise that if you come across a sick bird not to treat it yourself. Instead, put it in a box and call wildlife officials.

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