Something strange is happening in Richmond, California. Birds are dropping from the sky — and not just one or two. In some cases, entire flocks are going down. Witnesses have described loud popping noises just before seeing the birds slam into the ground. Most of the dead birds are starlings and mourning doves, common in the area, but their sudden deaths are anything but ordinary.
Surveillance footage has even captured a few of these events, with birds seemingly exploding mid-air. It’s as creepy as it sounds.
First Theories: Power Lines or Natural Causes?
At first, residents thought the birds might be electrocuted by nearby power lines. It seemed like the only logical explanation for so many birds to die in the same spot. But Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) quickly ruled that out. They checked their infrastructure and said it’s all in compliance with bird safety regulations.
“Birds Dying at Alarming Rate in California Neighborhood,” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: ABC7
Others thought it could be poisoning or maybe even disease. But so far, no toxic substances have shown up in the necropsies (animal autopsies), and they appeared otherwise healthy.
Necropsies Point to Disturbing Possibility
A hand with the remains of a bird. Image via Pexels
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife took a closer look and found something even more concerning: trauma consistent with pellet or BB gun injuries. Some of them had small puncture wounds and internal damage that didn’t match disease or electrocution.
That’s raised the possibility that someone—or multiple people—could be intentionally targeting the birds. If that’s the case, it may not just be a wildlife issue. It could turn into a criminal investigation.
Why This Is a Big Deal
Besides being downright disturbing, the deaths of so many birds could point to bigger problems. If someone is harming animals in a public neighborhood, it raises serious concerns about safety for both people and pets. Local officials are urging residents to report any suspicious behavior and avoid touching dead or injured wildlife.
The bird deaths have also reignited conversations around urban wildlife protection, illegal hunting, and how cities can better monitor environmental threats before they escalate.
What Residents Should Do
A man calling someone on his smartphone. Image via Pexels
While officials continue their investigation, there are a few simple steps residents can take to stay safe and help authorities gather more information.
Report Anything Suspicious: If you hear popping sounds or witness a bird falling, contact Richmond Animal Control immediately.
Keep Pets Away: Don’t let dogs or cats sniff or chew on dead birds — especially since the cause of death isn’t fully clear yet.
Don’t Touch the Birds: If you find a bird corpse, leave it and report the location so officials can safely collect and test it.
The Investigation Continues
As of now, over 50 dead birds have been found in the neighborhood, and authorities say they expect more to turn up. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is continuing its investigation with support from local animal services. Residents remain on edge, wondering what’s causing the chaos in their skies.
A BS Info Tech graduate with a big heart for animals and an even bigger passion for telling their stories. While tech is my background, writing is where I truly come alive — especially when it comes to wild encounters, animal rescues, and the unbelievable things creatures do.
