article_snippet: agency spokesman Gregg Losinski said biologists were awaiting results from a state wildlife lab to confirm the birds died of the highly contagious disease, which is caused by bacteria that can survive in soil and water for up to four months.
article_snippet: Death may be so rapid that birds literally fall out of the sky or die while eating with no previous signs of disease,' the U.S. Geological Survey said of the disease on the U.S. Geological Survey website. '
article_snippet: Sick birds appear lethargic, and when captured may die within minutes.'
article_snippet: the U.S. Geological Survey said that infected birds may swim in circles, experience convulsions, swim in circles, fly upside down, exhibit mucous discharge from infected birds mouths, have blood-stained or yellow droppings, and display soiled or matted feathers on parts of the body.