Why did 5000 birds fall from the sky? Suicide?

veterinary news

BIRDRecently 5000 birds were found dead in Arkansas. CNN is reporting that autopsies of the birds showed that the cause of death was not bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, pesticides, or chemicals. Instead, it was determined that they died from blunt force trauma.

It is believed that fireworks confused the birds and caused them to fly into mailboxes, trees, houses, and power lines.

About the author

Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie is a veterinarian treating dogs, cats, and pocket pets. Click here to ask Dr. Marie a question.


Follow Dr. Marie on Twitter

Become a Fan of Dr. Marie on Facebook

2 Responses to "Why did 5000 birds fall from the sky? Suicide?"

  1. Josh says:

    Is 13 birds out of 5000 really a big enough sample for this to be conclusive?

    I’m sure the birds would show signs of blunt force trauma. You would too if you fell out of the sky, right?

    1. DrMarie says:

      Very good points! The latest report that I read from MSNBC says that they have been able to determine that the blunt trauma was not from impact with the ground. I’m not sure exactly how they do that though!

      The birds’ stomachs were empty so it wasn’t a poison. They’re suggesting lightning, but you’d think they’d show signs of being burnt if this was the case. I guess it’s still a mystery!

Leave a Reply


IMPORTANT: Dr. Marie does not answer questions about your pets in the comments section. Click here to ask a vet about your pet.




Ask A Vet

Stay up to date!

Receive each veterinary news story by email.

Enter your email address:

We value your privacy!

Easy unsubscribe at any time.


All content © Ask A Vet Question