Lake Eola swans face avian influenza losses as Orlando reviews care protocols and park safety measures

Swans found dead in late December prompted testing and intensified park protocols

Orlando officials began an intensified response at Lake Eola Park after multiple swans were found dead in the days leading up to and immediately following Dec. 23, 2025. Early public updates described a dozen swan deaths and noted that the deaths did not appear suspicious, while city staff secured the birds so necropsies could be performed once specialized veterinary support was available following the holiday period.

In subsequent updates, city officials said the initial count had been revised, with additional deceased birds from other species included among the total losses. The city proceeded under the assumption of highly pathogenic avian influenza (commonly referred to as bird flu) while awaiting laboratory confirmation.

Confirmed outbreak expanded beyond initial reports

By mid-January 2026, city updates indicated the outbreak had resulted in 32 bird deaths at the park since mid-December, including 26 swans. Officials said the swans lost were Royal Mute swans, and that some of the affected swans were not part of the city-owned flock but were considered wild birds that had joined the group on the lake.

City officials also stated that 46 living swans remained at Lake Eola at that time. The park’s swan population has fluctuated in recent years, with officials noting it had previously reached higher totals.

Mitigation steps focused on limiting contact and reducing environmental contamination

As the deaths accumulated, city crews implemented sanitation measures in areas where waterfowl congregate. Steps described by officials included cleaning shorelines and walkways and removing public feeders. Warning signage was also posted in the park advising visitors not to feed birds, avoid direct contact with wildlife, and clean footwear if exposed to bird droppings.

Officials emphasized that avian influenza is a wildlife disease that can spread among birds, including through contact with infected feces and contaminated environments. Lake Eola’s setting—an urban lake that attracts both resident and migratory birds—was described by city representatives as a factor that can increase exposure risk for waterfowl congregating in the same area.

City begins review of the Lake Eola Swan Program amid public calls for changes

In late January 2026, the City of Orlando said it was actively reevaluating the Lake Eola Swan Program following public advocacy and a petition calling for changes in how the flock is supported and monitored. The requests raised by volunteers and advocates centered on consistent expert care, habitat cleanliness, and transparency around environmental conditions at the lake.

City statements during that period said staff were reviewing practices and identifying opportunities to strengthen best practices, while also noting that officials had reported no new bird flu cases among the swans over roughly a week during the same timeframe.

• Timeline of key events: first reported swan deaths on Dec. 23, 2025; expanded confirmed losses reported by mid-January 2026.
• Scope: 32 total bird deaths reported during the outbreak period, including 26 swans.
• Operational response: enhanced cleaning, feeder removal, and public guidance to reduce wildlife contact.

Lake Eola’s swans are a long-standing feature of downtown Orlando, and city officials have said discussions about replenishing the flock would occur after the outbreak subsides.