Over 40 dead sea birds found around Isles of Scilly in just a few weeks
The islands' wildlife trust has issued an update after an outbreak in west Cornwall
Last updated 25th Aug 2022
The Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust has issued an update following a confirmed outbreak of bird flu in west Cornwall and you may find some of the footage in this article upsetting.
Officials say more than 40 dead sea birds have been found around its shores in the space of a few weeks.
Officials fear it could be the tip of the iceberg, with more carcasses being reported out at sea that are beyond their reach.
They say the bodies of gannets and gulls that have been collected are being sent for testing, with residents and visitors being reminded to report any further sightings.
Posting on its Facebook page, the group said: "In the middle of summer, we got our first phone call reporting a dead gannet out at sea. We couldn't imagine that a few weeks later, our team would be dressed in full protective gear, removing the carcasses of nearly 50 dead sea birds washed up on our shores.
"And that's just the tip of the iceberg. There are lots more reports out at sea, where the bodies are beyond our reach. It’s upsetting for people to see, deeply worrying from a conservation perspective, and our team have all been deeply affected by what we're having to do".
The post continues: "Our main concerns with Bird Flu are how it can spread, to other species of birds, but also mammals, like dogs, seals and even humans.
"Once collected, the bodies will go to Defra for testing, to confirm if Bird Flu is present.
"We're taking a precautionary and proactive approach. Alongside the Council of the Isles of Scilly, the Duchy of Cornwall and members of the public, we're coordinating our response and trying to minimise the risks to wildlife, livestock and pets, and the community.
"If Bird Flu is confirmed, it'll be up to Defra to decide what happens next, especially when it comes to people who keep poultry and waterfowl, like chickens and ducks".
How can I report dead sea birds?
The Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust says: "The public can help by reporting the birds through two numbers - first, by phoning the Defra hotline on 03459 335577, by calling the Council of the Isles of Scilly on 0300 1234 105 or ourselves on 01720 422153.
"Please stay away from any dead or dying birds. Particularly, keep dogs well away.
"Thank you to all members of the community, local businesses and visitors who have helped us so far x".
Read More:
Outbreak of bird flu confirmed in west Cornwall
Samples from Cornwall wild bird hospital test positive for bird flu
Bird flu warning after dead gulls and gannets found in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
Warning to poultry keepers after confirmed outbreak of bird flu in Cornwall