UPDATE: Dead birds on bridge is a natural occurrence - KTRE.com | Lufkin and Nacogdoches, Texas

UPSHUR COUNTY, TX (KLTV) - A large number of dead birds spotted on the Hwy 155 bridge near Ore City is most likely a natural occurrence in the area and not related to the mysterious bird deaths in Arkansas and Louisiana.

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Media Communication Director, Tom Harvey, it is not uncommon to see dozens of dead birds on this bridge, including the American Coots here.

The Corps of Engineers office at Lake O' the Pines says they are not exactly sure why this happens, but it appears likely the birds are walking or roosting or flying on and around the bridge and many of them probably get hit and killed by motor vehicles.

The American Coots, which roost under the bridge, are prey for eagles and spook easily. When spooked they fly out from under the bridge in large masses, which explains why such a large number birds could be hit at one time.

Greg Conley, a TPWD staffer, said he has seen a similar situation involving multiple dead birds on bridges and roadways around Lake Fork. So, this appears to be a normal occurrence, not related to the Arkansas "birds falling from the sky" story.

"To my knowledge, there are no bird kills in Texas related to the Arkansas situation," said, Mr. Harvey.

Copyright 2011 KLTV. All rights reserved.