Published: July 03, 2009 07:20 am      

Sleeping Bear Dunes officials report die-off

EMPIRE -- Biologists at Sleeping Bear Dunes are reporting what appears to be another botulism-related bird die-off.

Park biologists found about 40 dead seagulls and hundreds of dead gobies along the park shoreline through Wednesday. Gobies, an invasive species, are believed to carry the botulism toxin and transmit it to birds when eaten.

Park officials said beaches remain safe for swimming and recreation, though visitors should avoid fish or bird carcasses.

Thousands of birds have died in recent years in botulism outbreaks throughout the region.

Anyone interested in helping to monitor the park's beaches during botulism outbreaks is asked to call Chris Otto of the National Parks Service at (231) 334-7685.