Park users started finding thousands of dead fish, prompting state wildlife biologists to investigate.
SAN ANTONIO — Daniel Martinez said he first noticed something fishy going on in South Side Lions Park on Monday.
He said he’s a regular walker on the trail around the lake and it didn’t take long to notice hundreds of vultures suddenly on the banks, and an unmistakable stench, as nature’s garbage collectors worked to clean the area by eating thousands of dead fish.
“I noticed the presence of the vultures, they’re generally not around in this area,” Martinez said, adding “It’s just very unfortunate and kind of really an unpleasant foul smell for the community.”
The long-time area resident said the park is very popular for all ages, with people who like to walk, bike, fish and simply enjoy nature.
Abel Quinones, who came to fish, agreed about the allure of the setting.
“It’s really nice to get away from the city, I guess, even though it’s in the city. Just to get away is truly a blessing!” Quinones said.
“I’ve caught catfish and trout,” Quinones added, while lamenting the loss of so many fish at one time.
A biologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife said the kill was not a result of poisoning, rather circumstances that combined to create a deadly situation.
A few cloudy days with little sun created a situation where the lake water had low levels of dissolved oxygen.
Another factor was recent rain that caused nutrient rich runoff. Biologists say when algae blooms and then dies, the decomposition by bacteria consumes large amounts of oxygen, leaving fish without enough to survive.
One final factor, they said, was a fountain in the lake designed to aerate the water failed.
Upon learning natural factors caused the situation, Martinez said “I’m just glad that somebody’s out here and bringing attention to the matter.”
With regard to the health of the vultures that are consuming rotting fish, one bird of prey expert said in the natural order of things, that’s their job.
Master falconer John Karger said the birds have powerful stomach acids and hardy immune systems that allow their bodies to tolerate and destroy dangerous bacteria and toxins.
KENS 5 reached out to the city parks department for an answer about when the fountain might be fixed. We’re still waiting for a response.
A state representative said they stand ready to re-stock the lake with fish as soon as the repair is made and conditions improve.
Texas Parks and Wildlife has a dedicated team that investigates issues like this.
The Kills and Spills Team has a 24-hour phone line to report situations, at (512) 389-4848.
Their website also has helpful information for anyone who finds fish or wildlife in distress.