>Valadez said the tests on the dead birds would likely take several days and look for >signs of poisoning or viral infections, though he said officials do not think bird flu is >involved.
Downtown Austin Closed After Bird Deaths (AP) Police shut down 10 blocks of businesses in the heart of downtown early Monday after dozens of birds were found dead in the streets, but officials said preliminary tests showed no dangerous chemicals in the air.
As many as 60 dead pigeons, sparrows and grackles were found overnight along Congress Avenue, a main route through downtown. No human injuries or illnesses were reported.
"We do not feel there is a threat to the public health," said Adolfo Valadez, the medical director for Austin and Travis County Health and Human Services. He said preliminary air -quality tests showed no dangerous chemicals and the area should reopen around noon.