Blue-Green Algae Outbreak Kills Local Wildlife in Ballantyne

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Ballantyne resident Michael Moosa walks by the Cullman Park Pond multiple times a week, but he’s noticed a concerning trend as of late.

“I noticed it looks a little more green-emerald colored than it usually is,” says Moosa.

“I’ve seen fewer ducks and geese hanging around here than normal.”

And he’d be right. The sudden change in water color is caused by blue-green algae, and it’s toxic.

Despite its name, blue-green algae isn’t actually algae. It’s a bacteria, known as Cyanobacteria, which can make wildlife, pets, and even people very sick if ingested.

“They’re ingesting this toxin every time they try to eat or drink,” says Jennifer Gordon, the founder and executive director of Carolina Waterfowl Rescue, a non-profit group based in nearby Indian Trail that has already taken six birds sickened from the pond.

“The symptoms are sometimes seizures or tremors. They’re very lethargic. Sometimes they’re paralyzed,” Gordon laments.

Unfortunately, three of the birds they took in on Monday didn’t make it. But Gordon is hopeful they’ll be able to save the other three.

“We’re flushing their system with fluids and administering antitoxin medication to try to combat the poison in their system,” says Gordon.

Blue-green algae often flourishes in slow-moving water sources like puddles and ponds in the summer – which can be a major concern for wild and domesticated animals alike. A similar outbreak killed four dogs in North Carolina back in 2019.

“Just be careful with your pets. Make sure they don’t run down here and accidentally jump in the water or take a sip.”

Charlotte Water Quality is aware of the outbreak at Cullman Park Pond and is actively treating the area. WCCB Charlotte reached out to them for comment but did not hear back in time for this story. If and when they respond, their comments will be added to this story.