Wethersfield Connecticut -- A rough winter is causing a smelly spring. Dead fish are popping up in ponds and reservoirs across Connecticut, and while it's a natural occurrence, it's more widespread thanks to this year's winter weather.
Wethersfield's 1860 reservoir is a picturesque place and serene spot. For Nate Wierzbicki, it's his back yard.
"If I'm home, I'm out there," Wierzbicki said. "If I'm free I'll be out there catching some sun and some bass."
The dead fish started popping up following the spring thaw. Officials from the Department of Environmental Protection said winter fish kills are a part of nature.
Officials said the heavy snow on top of the ice blocks light. That light can't reach below to the plants and algae, and limits oxygen production. It's a real problem for shallow bodies of water and come spring time, dead and decomposing fish begin to pile up.
"We looked behind us and it's like oh my God," Wierzbicki said. "I saw all these fish piled up. We've seen stuff like that before, but this went out 2 to 3 feet, stacked up on top of each other, it's awful."
Residents who live in the area said they've noticed in some spots there isn't as many fish. They suspect animals are getting to them, but in other places, there are still plenty and the smell is still strong.
"It's exactly like rotting fish. I mean, it's putrid," Wierzbicki said.
It's not just in Wethersfield though. The DEP said winter fish kills have been reported at three dozen of the state's ponds and lakes. That's already more than all of last year. As for what's next, you can let nature take its course, or round up and dispose of the fish. The DEP said landfills, composting facilities and resource recovery facilities are also options.
"STERLING, Kan. — A central Kansas family hopes to learn what caused the deaths of dozens of birds that fell from trees outside their house.
Elizabeth Stange says it started with one or two birds tumbling to the ground Thursday afternoon, followed by dozens more. The Sterling woman told KWCH-TV that the birds all died within minutes of each other.
By evening, Stange says, she and her family collected about 50 birds from their driveway and yard.
Stange says a local veterinarian told her the birds probably ate something poisonous. But a few were sent to Kansas State University for a closer look.
At one point, Stange's family worried about leaving the house for fear of being hit by a falling bird. She calls the episode bizarre."
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