Worrying times for UK's seabirds

The UK is currently experiencing its worst-ever outbreak of avian flu, commonly known as bird flu.

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Avian flu is an infectious type of influenza that spreads among birds, including waterfowl and gulls.

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has published guidance for clubs and centres, but it may be that the local response to avian flu is led by landlords and the exact detail of this will vary from location to location, depending on the level of risk identified by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). However, there is no legal requirement for local authorities to limit access to public areas or close rights of way, and DEFRA has stated that the countryside remains open for business.

There is currently very little risk to humans from bird flu, but if cases have been identified in your local area it is good practice to avoid contact, encourage hand washing and cleaning protocols to minimise the risk of transmission to other bird populations.

Seabirds are one of the most threatened groups in the world. Around one-third of Europe’s breeding seabirds call Scotland home, including some of our most vulnerable species, such as kittiwakes.