Eden officials say similar incidents have happened in southwest Virginia and could possibly be tied to H5N1 Avian Influenza.

EDENTON, N.C. — Officials in Rockingham County are investigating after at least 20 dead vultures were found on a man’s yard and property along South Avenue in Eden, prompting road closures and health precautions amid concerns about possible avian influenza.

Eden Police Lieutenant David Stepps said officers responded alongside the city’s Public Works Department, with Animal Control assisting earlier in the response. As a precaution, South Avenue between Bethel Street and Rickman Drive was temporarily blocked off.

The city said the report of dead vultures came in earlier Tuesday. In a social media alert, officials noted similar incidents have been reported in several counties in southwest Virginia, where the Virginia Department of Health said groups of vultures may be infected with H5N1 avian influenza.

Because of those reports, the city contacted the Rockingham County Health Department, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the N.C. Department of Agriculture. Officials said the birds will be safely disposed of and tested to determine whether disease played a role. At this time, they say it’s unclear what caused the birds’ deaths.

The homeowner, Marques Christopher, said the situation unfolded over several days, beginning just after New Year’s Day, when he found the first dead vulture in his yard.

“So the first one I was like, OK, the second one, I was like, OK, what’s going on?” Christopher recalled. 

Christopher estimates at least 20 vultures died on his property over about six days. Some birds appeared disoriented before collapsing, while others were found already dead.

“It’s just crazy how, you know, it’s like, it’s straight out of a movie that all these birds just in one spot,” he said. 

Christopher said his frustration grew as he repeatedly called for help, worried about his dog and the possibility of disease. Eventually, city officials responded by closing the street and removing the birds. He said officers also euthanized at least one or two birds that were still alive.

Officials are urging residents not to touch dead or sick birds and to report concerns. Anyone with questions is asked to contact the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401.

City officials say more information will be released as test results become available.