Wildlife reserve in Belfast closed to public due to bird flu outbreak

The RSPB said it is monitoring the situation very carefully and taking all the appropriate actions

The nature reserve, Window on Wildlife, is closed in Belfast to the public because of a suspected Bird Flu outbreak.
Author: Chelsie KealeyPublished 4th Jun 2023

A nature reserve in Belfast has been closed to the public due to an outbreak of bird flue.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) said a number of black-headed gulls were found dead at the Window on Wildlife reserve at Belfast Harbour.

The RSPB said it was monitoring the situation very carefully and taking all the appropriate actions by following current scientific advice.

A spokeswoman said: "Our concerns lie with both the birds and the wellbeing of our staff and the public.

"RSPB staff and volunteers across our entire reserves network and at Belfast's Window on Wildlife have been following strict protocols and will continue to be vigilant for dead or sick birds, reporting these to DAERA as required."

The public should not touch or handle dead or sick birds, and should report dead or sick birds to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) hotline 0300 200 7840.

More information about the latest situation on bird flu and advice on reducing risks can be found on the DAERA website.

Read More:

25-year old man dies following county Down crash

Man refused bail over charges in connection with taxi 'threat' video

How to listen to Downtown Country:

Tune into Northern Ireland’s number 1 for Country music, Downtown Country on online, on the Rayo app, your DAB radio, or say ‘Play Downtown Country’ on your Smart Speaker. We play you the best Irish and American country music, from Victoria Quinn in the morning, to Big T’s legendary evening Country show.