Cyanobacteria blooms have been attributed to mass mortality events of many different animals, including fish, birds and livestock. If you suspect an event is tied to a harmful algal bloom, the first collection should be of the water source so that identification of the cyanobacteria/algae present can be made. Toxin testing of the water/bloom material also helps to determine if toxin levels are sufficient to have caused animal intoxication. Many times, an event has a complicated etiology, with more than one toxin and/or stressor present.
GreenWater Laboratories can help wildlife officials diagnose these events.