Colorado Parks and Wildlife is investigating the die-off of hundreds of carp in Lake Pueblo.

CPW said the die-off was first discovered July 27, when park rangers noticed about 10 dead carp in the Turkey Creek area on the far northwestern end of the lake. By Sunday evening, park visitors reported seeing dozens to hundreds of dead fish. A CPW wildlife manager counted about 300 dead carp along the banks, in the water in Turkey Creek cove, and stretching west of the creek. No other fish species were found dead. 

CPW called their Aquatic Animal Health Lab, but they couldn’t determine the cause of the die-off because scientists need specimens from dying fish to perform a necropsy, which would identify any viruses or pathogens. 

CPW said the die-off represents a small portion of the carp population in Lake Pueblo. 

CPW said visitors should expect to see dead carp in the water for the next week or two. If anyone sees carp struggling in the water, they’re asked to notify park staff.