Avian flu outbreak

The Comhairle is aware that an unusually high number of dead seabirds are being seen on local beaches throughout the islands.

The current avian flu outbreak is affecting wild bird colonies, especially sea birds. If you come across any dead wild birds, such as ducks, swans and geese, gulls, gannets, or birds of prey - or five or more other types of birds dead in one location – do not touch the carcasses or try and remove it yourself.  Any findings of dead birds in these circumstances should be reported to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77. There is more information available on the Scottish Government Avian influenza (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) webpage.

If you keep poultry, including game birds, pets or other captive birds you should take steps now to review your biosecurity. This is particularly important if you are in or close to a higher risk area.  The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs have produced further information in their - Biosecurity and preventing Welfare impacts in poultry and captive birds (») (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) document.