Avian Flu

Whilst it is upsetting to have birds dying in this way, the risk to the public from this strain of avian flu is very low. However, people should not touch any dead or sick birds.

Reporting Dead Birds

You should call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77) if you find:

one or more dead bird of prey or owl
3 or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks)
5 or more dead birds of any species

Please also inform us at info@lrwt.org.uk

Sick and Injured Birds

Sick and Injured birds should be reported to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999

Further information on dealing with sick and injured birds at this time can be found at rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/diseases

Please don't feed the birds

As an additional measure to prevent birds congregating whilst being fed by visitors we are asking people not to feed birds at our reserves whilst Avian Flu cases are high. We recognise that people enjoy feeding the birds, especially children and families, but believe that the current situation requires a cautionary approach. Whilst providing a welcome treat, supplementary feeding is not essential for our reserve’s wild birds.

Dogs on leads

Please keep your dog on a lead to limit the chance of contact with birds and remember to wash your hands regularly.

Rutland Water Bird Flu

Test results have confirmed that a significant number of recent bird deaths at Rutland Water Nature Reserve are the result of an outbreak of Avian Flu. The virus is predominantly affecting Black-headed Gulls within the breeding colony on Lagoon 4, although a small number of other wetland birds have been infected across the site. While the risk to members of the public from Avian Flu remains very low, we are urging everyone to please not handle any dead birds or birds which are showing symptoms of illness. We are also kindly asking the public to be vigilant when they visit any of our Nature Reserves and to report any dead birds they find to info@lrwt.org.uk