30 egrets’ deaths in west Wichita under investigation

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is investigating the deaths of 30 egrets found in a residential area near Central and I-235 earlier this week.

The main goal of the investigation is to determine the cause of death, although it could take a while, said Larry Hastings, department law enforcement captain.

“It could take weeks, it could take months, figuring out what killed the birds, talking to people, figuring out if there are any witnesses,” Hastings said.

Because egrets are protected from harm by federal law, the investigation will likely involve federal wildlife officials, Hastings said.

“We’re collecting information and data, and when we get enough, we will turn it over to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services,” Hastings said.

In Wichita, egrets had been known to roost in the 13th and Doris area for years, sometimes raising the ire of residents. However, last year most of the trees in which they used to roost were bulldozed.

Egrets are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which states it is illegal to harm or disturb the birds. Violation of the treaty is punishable by up to $500 in fines or up to six months in prison

Wichita police are asking anyone who has information about crimes involving egrets to call the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks at 316-683-8069.

This story was originally published June 9, 2016 at 5:30 PM with the headline "30 egrets’ deaths in west Wichita under investigation."