Hundreds of birds found dead near Brisbane Airport

Hundreds of birds and other animals have been found dead in Brisbane, with experts saying they believe they may have been poisoned.

The birds were found dead in water that was thick with algae at Pinkenba, near the mouth of the Brisbane River in the city's east.

Dead rats, toads, a hare and a fox were also found at the site over the past week.

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The industrial area is next to the airport and also close to the Port of Brisbane and cruise terminal.

RSPCA rescue manager Jo Jordaan told 4BC Breakfast biosecurity teams are investigating, but they didn't know the cause.

She said they're waiting on investigations over the "very distressing incident."

"Obviously it was a small number we could put this down to being coincidental, but we're talking about a large number," Jordaan said.

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She said they were waiting for test results from the government but "couldn't rule" out poisoning.

She said RPCA workers were being careful when working there, because of the possible hazard.

"We don't know what it is so we're taking every precaution," Jordaan said.

Anybody who sees sick wildlife should contact the RSPCA.

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