helping local birdlife
As reported on the RSPB website, right now avian flu is killing vulnerable and rare wild birds across the UK and worldwide. The disease has spread from Scotland, around England's coasts, reaching Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, as well as Wales and Northern Ireland. You may have seen its devastating impacts in your area.
As a wildlife enthusiast and keen follower of British bird and wildlife, this really saddens me. A recent trip to Chester Zoo saw some of the exhibits closed to protect the birds there too, but other animals can be infected too. Since 2021, a small number of mammals have tested positive for bird flu in the UK, including foxes, otters and seals.
But what about the birds in your own garden who come to visit? Gardens are really important places for our birds and bird flu is predominantly being reported in bird species that are not commonly found in gardens. The good news is the risk to you from wild birds is so small there is no need to deter birds coming to your garden. It is also an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 to destroy a nest which is in use, being built or repaired.
If you need further information on Avian Flu, please check out these links: