A Canada goose rescued from an icy pond by members of Okotoks Fire and Rescue last month did not survive.
The Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation said the goose had an advanced case of avian flu and died at the institute's vet clinic northwest of Calgary.
The lone Canada goose was found in a partially frozen stormwater pond in Drake Landing on Oct. 27. It appeared to be frozen to the ice.
A phone call from a concerned citizen led firefighters to free the goose using water rescue equipment.
Once free, the goose struggled to move and was brought ashore.
"We noticed it was unable to move, so we got the water rescue team to make it out to the goose, and it was either injured, partially stuck, and they were able to get a hold of the goose and bring it to shore," Okotoks Fire and Rescue deputy Chief Colin Sager said.
The goose was taken to the Southern Alberta Veterinary Emergency (SAVE) clinic, where it was picked up by the Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation to be assessed for possible rehabilitation or release.
Migratory birds are under threat from avian influenza, particularly during their seasonal migration, the institute said.
The institute said it is grateful to all those who helped to rescue the goose, and who assisted and offered support afterwards.
-with files from Brent Calver
