Dozens of dead birds wash ashore in S.C.; investigation ongoing

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH (AP) - South Carolina authorities are investigating why dozens of dead birds have been washing ashore.

The Post and Courier reported birds of several species washed up during the weekend in North Myrtle Beach.

A spokesman for the city, Pat Dowling, said they include pelicans, seagulls, water ducks and cormorants. Dowling said it's unusual for the Grand Strand to have so many dead birds in a two- or three-day period.

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources spokesman Robert McCullough said the agency is conducting necropsies.

Investigators from the Coast Guard and the Department of Health and Environmental Control flew along the shoreline to look for signs of a spill from a dredging boat working on a beach renourishment project. Coast Guard Lt. J.B. Zorn says they found no clear signs of pollution.