Dead sea birds collected on Isles of Scilly test positive for bird flu
An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone is in force on the islands and Cornwall
Last updated 2nd Sep 2022
The Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust has confirmed dead sea birds collected around its shores in recent weeks have tested positive for bird flu.
The organisation made the announcement on social media, after the declaration of an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across the islands, Cornwall, Devon and parts of Somerset.
The team said they are "devastated, but sadly not surprised" by samples testing positive.
They had already confirmed the discovery of multiple dead gannets and gulls on the islands' shores and said rangers are working hard to collect samples.
Both the islands' council and Cornwall Council have issued advice to bird keepers, following the declaration of the AIPZ.
It means all now have to follow strict biosecurity measures and take steps to prevent further outbreaks.
Two have been confirmed in the west of Cornwall - near Newlyn and Constantine.
Posting on Facebook, the team said: "We are devastated, but sadly not surprised, that wild bird samples collected by Defra last week have tested positive for Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu).
"We are so grateful to the community for their amazing response so far. We appreciate every report, every message and especial thanks to those people who have gone above and beyond to directly help our team in removing bodies from public areas (with special training and support - please don’t attempt this individually).
"Whilst the risk to humans remains low, we're reiterating the same messages: Please keep dogs on leads on beaches, report sightings to Defra and the Council (or us), and stay away from any sick or dead birds you find.
"The Council have also issued a statement regarding an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone across the region (effective from 31st August). Please read this on their website if you keep poultry/wildfowl and may be impacted.
"Thank you all for your kind messages and support - they’re keeping our rangers and whole team motivated and smiling".
The AIPZ is expected to remain in force indefinitely and the latest advice for keepers can be found on Cornwall Council's dedicated webpage.
Poultry keepers and members of the public should report dead wild birds to Defra's national dead wild bird helpline on 03459 33 55 77 (please select option 7).
Keepers should report suspicion of disease in their birds to APHA on 03000 200 301 and also familiarise themselves with Defra's avian flu advice.
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