There have been recent reports of bird flu outbreaks which make our coastal birds’ perilous lives even tougher.
Here’s what to do to help if you find a dead wild bird:
Contact Defra (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) by completing its online bird flu reporting form or calling its general helpline on 03459 335577.
You’ll be asked where you found the dead birds, what type they were, how many you found and your contact details – it takes about 5 minutes to complete.
Defra may come and collect birds you report to test them. This will help them understand how the disease is distributed and in what different types of bird. Not all birds will be collected: wild birds are susceptible to a range of diseases and injuries, and not all dead birds will have been infected with avian influenza.
Although the UK Health Security Agency has said the risk to the public from this bird flu strain is very low, it’s important not to touch or move any dead or sick wild birds and to keep dogs well away. If you touch wild bird droppings or feathers, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. For more advice go to the NHS website.
You can also support our birdlife by following the Bird Aware Coastal Code.
In this challenging time, it is even more crucial that we give birds the space they need to feed and rest undisturbed.
