The Unexpected Passing of Riverside Cemetery's Goose Scout
The Riverside Cemetery community is in mourning following the sudden death of their beloved goose, Scout. Just one month after her arrival, the one-and-a-half-year-old Emden goose was found dead on Sunday, leaving her companion, Frankie, once again alone.
General Manager Kelly Schott expressed her surprise at the news, as Scout had been in good health just the day before. The body was promptly taken to the state veterinarian in Des Moines for a necropsy, which will reveal the cause of death. The necropsy will include checks for avian flu and other potential factors, such as stress or human intervention.
Scout's arrival at Riverside Cemetery in November was intended to provide companionship for Frankie, who had been alone since October after the tragic death of his female companion, Blossom. The cemetery staff plans to wait until spring to find a new companion for Frankie, prioritizing the health and safety of the flock during the colder months and the ongoing avian flu concerns.
In December, reports emerged of bird flu (H5N1) affecting migrating geese in Iowa. However, Schott assured that no birds at Riverside showed symptoms of the illness at that time. The staff will continue to monitor the flock, and any additional deaths will result in the removal of the affected birds.
Despite some instances of dizziness among the birds, which resolved themselves, Schott remains confident. She attributes the deaths of two geese frozen to the pond to the thin ice they slept on, emphasizing the unpredictability of nature. She also highlights the emotional impact of Scout's passing, describing her as a well-liked and content goose who had integrated well with the other birds.
For further inquiries or to share your thoughts, contact Lana Bradstream at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.
