Rye Harbour Nature Reserve has warned visitors to take care after the disease was discovered there.
A statement on social media reads: “Unfortunately there has recently been a confirmed case of bird flu at the nature reserve.
“If you’re visiting, we ask that you help to reduce the risk of spreading the disease by following these guidelines:
- Keep to the footpath
- Protect your dog from becoming infected by keeping them on a lead and away from wild birds
- Don’t pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
- Don’t touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings
- If you keep poultry or other birds wash your hands, clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to them
- If you find any dead wild birds, please report it at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/report-dead-wild-birds or call 03459 33 55 77.
“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
The Sussex Wildlife Trust added that the advice applies to not only visitors but the wider general public as good practice to prevent the spread of the disease.
READ MORE: Beach walker’s shock as decapitated seal found on beach
A notice on the Sussex Wildlife Trust website reads: “There is an outbreak of Avian Flu amongst our wild birds in the Hastings and Rother area.
“You may see dead or sick birds along the beach here and elsewhere.
“Do not touch dead or sick birds and keep dogs away from them.”
According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, cases of bird flu “are increasing in both kept poultry and wild birds across multiple areas of Great Britain”.
An avian influenza prevention zone is currently in place across England to “monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza” and applies to all bird keepers, mandating a range of requirements such as sufficient cleaning and separating birds.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve consists of coastal views and wetlands and is home to more than 4,355 species of plants and animals including 300 that are rare or endangered.
Source link
[Featured]
[Just In]
