Avian flu advice

There have been a number of recent occurrences of dead seabirds and waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks) being found on neighbouring coastlines and elsewhere in Scotland.  Some of these birds may have died as a result of Avian Influenza.  Whilst risks to human health are very low, the following precautions are advisable when out and about.

Precautions

• Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
• Keep pets/dogs away from any dead or sick birds
• Do not feed wild waterfowl
• Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings
• If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds.

Reporting

• Please report any dead wild seabird or waterfowl to the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) hotline: 03459 335577. 
• If the bird is alive but ailing, call the SSPCA on 03000 999 999.
• It will be very helpful if you are able to provide an accurate location and information on the type of bird found.