26/06/2025
🐔⚠ IMPORTANT PLEASE READ ⚠🐔
Avian Influenza (AI), also known as "Bird Flu," is a viral infection that can affect many bird species, especially poultry like chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese.
You may have seen reported that there has been confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in the nearby area.
The following link details more information and the affected areas:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/bird-flu-avian-influenza-latest-situation-in-england
Owners of birds with outdoor access need to be particularly aware of AI as it can be spread by migratory and wild birds.
Even indoor birds, like caged songbirds, have a lower risk but could still be exposed through contaminated materials brought inside.
Be observant of your birds for any changes. Signs of AI can be variable but may include reduced egg production, difficulty breathing (fast breathing, panting), diarrhoea, and reduced food and water intake.
More severe signs include high levels of sudden death and a blue colouration of the comb and wattle.
Remember, these signs can be common to other diseases, so always consult your vet if you have concerns. Ducks and geese might show milder signs.
Due to the current Avian Influenza (AI) findings we must take precautions when looking after sick and/or injured birds.
We have to consider quarantine measures and ask politely not to bring poorly birds into the practice. Please call us for guidance.
If you need to report sick or dead wild birds, please call DEFRA 03459 33 55 77
Thank you for taking the time to read and if you have any questions at all please don't hesitate to call us on 01924 786688
