Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Current advice to the public

We're aware of reports of relatively high numbers of dead birds being found, particularly on beaches, in the area.

The risk to human health from 'bird flu' is very low.

Please follow the guidance below in case these are cases of avian influenza or any other disease wild birds are susceptible to.

Don't handle or touch any visibly sick or dead wild bird.
Leave the bird where it's been found.
Don't touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings.
Keep dogs and other pets away from dead birds.

To report dead birds, contact the Department of Environment, Food, & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) by phoning 03459 33 55 77.

Further information can be found online here: https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/pages/dead-or-sick-wild-birds-what-to-do/

Poultry and Captive Birds

Avian influenza (bird flu) mainly affects birds. It can also affect humans and other mammals. Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by contacting your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence. If you find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77 - please select option 7)..

If you keep poultry or other captive birds, you must take action now to reduce the risk of disease in your flock by following the relevant biosecurity measures required within the zone. This applies just as much if you only have a few birds as pets, or if you have a large commercial flock. An outbreak of avian influenza in back garden chickens results in the same restrictions on movement of birds. It has the same impact on farmers and trade in poultry as an outbreak on a commercial farm would have. Good biosecurity  improves the overall health and productivity of your flock by helping keep out poultry diseases, such as avian influenza, and limiting the spread of diseases in an outbreak.

All bird gatherings within the prevention zone are prohibited. Therefore, the general licence that had permitted bird gatherings has been revoked.

Tips on protecting your birds from the risk of bird flu can be found here (pdf) 

For further information https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/

Contact Us

Environmental Health
Council Offices
High Street
Elgin
IV30 1BX

0300 1234561

pest.control@moray.gov.uk

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