BASC urges vigilance as cases of bird flu confirmed

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) is advising members to remain vigilant for signs of avian influenza, otherwise known as bird flu, in both wild bird populations and kept birds this winter.

The advice is being issued following two confirmed cases of H5N1 Avian Influenza, one near to Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire (highly pathogenic) and more recently one near to Wrexham, North Wales (pathogenicity to be confirmed), in both cases control zones have been put in place.

Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and gundogs, said: “With winter migration movements underway the risk level of bird flu is rising.

“BASC is reminding members to remain vigilant to the signs of bird flu and that bird keepers should follow the Government’s biosecurity best practice advice. It is also essential that anyone within one of the control zones follows the rules and measures which have been implemented.

“BASC is in close contact with the relevant government agencies and will continue to update members of any developments.”

ENDS…
 

Notes to Editors:

Any reports of dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds (such as gulls and birds of prey) should be reported to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.

Updates on the two confirmed cases, further advice and relevant links to government agencies can all be found on the BASC avian influenza landing page.