The outbreak of Avian Botulism on Rye Harbour Nature Reserve appears to have passed its peak but there has been confirmation that one bird was infected with Avian Influenza, according to the Sussex Wildlife Trust.
“The current total of dead birds stands at 430. This shows a slowdown in the number of casualties we’re finding. Only 16 birds were collected last week, much lower than at the beginning of September,” said a spokesperson for Sussex Wildlife Trust.
As well as the collection of dead birds, the change of the weather with rain and cooler temperatures is helping, as the recent hot weather and drought are conditions that enable Avian Botulism to develop.
“Sadly, testing by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed that Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is present in one of the birds sent for testing. Avian Influenza is highly transmissible to birds, but the risk to human health is low. It is likely that both the suspected Avian Botulism and Avian Influenza have resulted in bird deaths on the reserve.”
The reserve team will continue to monitor the situation.
Castle Water remains closed to the public and visitors to the rest of the reserve are asked to follow onsite signage and help protect wildlife by:
- Keeping dogs on a lead at all times
- Not allowing dogs to enter the water
- Never touching sick, injured or dead birds
- Reporting dead birds to the Defra helpline: 0345 933 5577
Image Credits: Dav Bridger/Sussex Wildlife Trust .