SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Researchers say starvation and unexpected weather are to blame for a statewide die-off among migratory birds in New Mexico.
They had suspected as much when countless birds turned up dead, starting in August. Biologists collected hundreds of samples of warblers, swallows and other birds for testing.
Researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey's National Wildlife Health Center in Wisconsin analyzed them and found nearly all the birds were severely emaciated. They say an unusual storm worsened their conditions, likely causing the birds to become disoriented and fly into objects and buildings. The researchers ruled out disease and poisoning.