Under the direction of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Services, the City of Falls Church Animal Control Officer requests that residents and business remove and put away bird feeders and bird baths. Scientists are trying to determine out the cause of a large quantity of bird deaths. Removing bird feeders and bird baths could prevent birds from congregating, which could prevent more deaths and slow the spread of the mystery illness.

"Natural food is plentiful this time of year," said Animal Warden Becky Keenan. "With this potential illness going around, birds will be much better off if residents put away their feeders and baths until the issue is solved. Keep your pets away from birds right now, too."

Bird feeders and bird baths should be cleaned with a 10 percent bleach solution before placing in storage.

If residents find dead birds they can wear gloves and place it in a plastic bag, and then in the trash. Report dead or sick birds to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Services, dwr.virginia.gov/blog/dwr-statement-on-sick-and-dying-birds- washington-d-c-virginia-maryland-and-west virginia.