We are aware of a small number of dead birds in the wild bird population at Strathclyde and Drumpellier Country Parks, which are being treated as possible cases of avian flu. The Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has been informed.
Our Countryside Rangers are regularly monitoring our country parks and other locations where there are populations of wild birds for any signs of the disease.
When visiting our parks and greenspaces, please follow the Scottish Government guidance to reduce the risk of the disease spreading:
- Keep to the footpaths with dogs on a lead.
- Do not feed wild waterfowl.
- Do not pick up or touch dead or ill birds.
- Do not touch bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings.
- Report dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese, or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, to the DEFRA helpline: 03459 335577.
Some strains of bird flu can pass to humans, but this is very rare. It usually requires very close contact between humans and infected birds.
For more information, go to the Scottish Government website. This site includes advice for businesses or anyone who keeps chickens, geese or ducks.