WYCHAVON District Council is asking residents to avoid touching sick or dead wild birds after a recent increase in swans and geese found unwell or dead along the River Avon in Evesham.
Birds have been reported in Abbey Park, Crown Meadow, Workman Gardens and Corporation Meadow.
The cause is not yet confirmed, but Avian Influenza (bird flu) is a possible factor, as the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) confirmed today (December 23) that it had been found in several geese along the Avon at Stratford.
Symptoms of avian flu in wild birds can include a swollen head, closed or watery eyes, unusual head or body movements, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and sudden death.
The council is monitoring the situation closely and working with DEFRA to ensure any affected birds are removed safely.
Wychavon is urging the public not to touch or move any sick or dead birds.
DEFRA and the UK Health Security Agency advise that the risk to the general public from bird flu remains very low, but vigilance is key.
DEFRA also advises the public not to touch or pick up dead wild birds.
Sightings can be reported through the online reporting system or by calling 03459 33 55 77 and selecting option 7. These reports enable national agencies to monitor and manage the spread of avian influenza.
Ian Edwards, director of economy & environment, said: “We know how much people care about the swans and geese along the Avon, and it’s upsetting to see some of them unwell.
“We’re asking everyone to help by not touching or moving any sick or dead birds and to report them to our Parks Team or directly to Defra so they can be dealt with safely.
“We also suggest keeping pets on a lead when walking by the river, Abbey Park, Crown Meadow, Workman Gardens and Corporation Meadow as the water levels drop, just in case there are any unwell birds or ones that have died.
“If you do see a bird that looks unwell, please give it plenty of space and leave it in peace.
“And we ask people not to hand-feed wild geese and swans.”
Anyone who finds a bird that appears unwell or has died should report it to the Wychavon Parks Team by calling 01386 565570 during office hours or emailing [email protected].
To help the team respond quickly, residents are encouraged to provide the exact location of the bird, which can be done using the What3Words app or website by selecting the precise spot on the map and sharing the three-word reference.
