SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. — Residents of South Haven are expressing concern after discovering a large number of dead birds along shoreline, prompting fears of potential avian influenza.

Kitty Girard, a South Haven resident, told News Channel 3 she and her husband Larry woke up to find bird carcasses sprawling the beach outside of their North Beach condo, leading her to wonder, "Could this be bird flu?"

A survey of the area revealed more than 100 dead birds, a figure confirmed by the DNR, which said current estimates show at least 130 birds have been affected.

Beachgoers are being urged by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the City of South Haven to avoid the birds whenever possible to prevent potential spread of disease.

The Michigan DNR is investigating the situation, saying that affected species include long-tailed ducks and murky Merganser, which are well-adapted to Lake Michigan's stormy conditions. For this reason, they said that highly pathogenic avian influenza is being considered as the cause.

"In terms of what we're looking at here and other potential specimens that ended up, we really are only focused on how highly pathogenic avian influenza has affected those wild birds," said Rachel Lincoln with the DNR's Wildlife Division.

The DNR said samples have been collected and sent out to the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostics Lab for testing, however, results may be delayed due to a nationwide outbreak backlog.

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Fresh carcasses can carry diseases, but as decomposition occurs, the risk of virus transmission decreases, so leaving them to decompose naturally in remote areas where they "do not pose a risk" is best practice, according to the city and DNR.

If disposal is necessary, according to the DNR, it is crucial for people to cover their skin completely, including wearing a mask, to double bag the carcasses and place them directly into the trash. Then, wash your clothes in hot water, dispose of items that touched the carcass, and sanitize your skin.

The City of South Haven said staff is continuing to monitor and clear public beaches, but private property owners are responsible for their own cleanup.

The DNR said that if you observe six or more dead birds in one area, you should report it on their "Eyes in the Field" platform.

Concerns about human health and safety should be forwarded to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at 517-335-8165.

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If bird flu is suspected in a domestic flock, contact Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) immediately at 800-292- 3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after hours).