Mystery as 750 pelicans found dead in Senegal

A world heritage site in northern Senegal that welcomes millions of migratory birds every year is now closed to visitors until further notice, after 750 pelicans were found dead.

The dead birds were found at the weekend and were incinerated as a precaution. Reports said.

“We took some samples for screening and we hope in the near future to know what caused the death of the pelicans.” Director of Senegal’s parks, Bocar Thiam Said.

Results are expected by the end of the week reports said.

“You don’t hear of avian flu affecting fish-eating birds,” Mr Thiam said, apparently ruling out one suspected cause.

Some 100,000 chickens have been culled this month following an outbreak of bird flu at a poultry farm in southern Senegal.

BBC/Olawunmi Sadiq