Avian influenza

Avian influenza

The Wildlife Trusts have provided this guidance for the public regarding avian influenza (bird flu)
Image of gull colony at South Walney Nature Reserve in 2019 © Cumbria Wildlife Trust

Sadly, avian influenza is having a devastating impact on wild bird populations across the UK. Please do remain vigilant - here's some guidance.

It's really important that you DO NOT touch any sick or dead birds. If you find any dead or sick waterfowl (ducks, swans, geese), gulls, seabirds, birds of prey, or more than five of any other species together, please report them to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) on 03459 335577.

If you feed your garden birds, clean bird feeders regularly, and change water daily. If you see any sick or dead birds in your garden remove your feeders, to help to prevent the spread of disease.

For further guidance, see Defra's advice to the public.