Johannesburg zoo investigates over 20 bird deaths at Zoo Lake
Veterinarians will conduct post-mortem examinations on selected carcasses to determine the cause of death for the waterbirds.
More than 20 waterbirds, including Egyptian geese, were found dead at Johannesburg's Zoo Lake on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Park visitors raised the alarm after discovering the carcasses, prompting an investigation by city authorities.
The Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo’s Environmental Conservation team collected the dead birds on Monday, November 2. Veterinarians from the Johannesburg Zoo will perform post-mortem examinations to establish the cause of death, while water samples have also been collected for testing.
The JCPZ suspects seasonal avian botulism, a disease fatal to birds, may have caused the deaths due to hot conditions and decomposing organic matter. Residents are advised to avoid swimming, consuming fish, and handling dead wildlife, and to report any findings to emi@jhbcityparks.com.
Why it mattersResidents of Johannesburg are advised to exercise caution around Zoo Lake due to potential water contamination and the discovery of dead birds.