Avian influenza or 'bird flu'
The risk of avian influenza for all poultry has reduced to low (meaning the event is rare but does occur) and the avian influenza prevention zones (AIPZ) for poultry and captive birds in England, Wales and Scotland have been lifted from midday on 4 July 2023.
Whilst the risk level in kept birds has reduced, the risk in wild birds remains high and all bird keepers should continue to take steps to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading at all times and be vigilant for signs of disease.
Bird flu on the Sefton coast
Latest update 18/07/23
Sefton Council has received confirmation from The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) that avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has been found in wild birds along the Sefton Coast.
The Council continues working with DEFRA to ensure all cases are reported and the dead birds are dealt with safely.
It is imperative that all visitors to our coastline follow the guidance below:
- Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds;
- Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings;
- Do not feed waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans, etc)
- Keep dogs on leads and avoid walking along the tide line;
- Avoid dogs coming into contact with wild birds;
- If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands, clean and disinfect footwear before tending to your birds.
We encourage anyone who sees a sick or dead bird on our coastline to report it to DEFRA
Report a sick or dead wildbird
Call: 03459 335577
Council officers continue to monitor strandlines, which are lines formed from where debris is left after a high tide, and follow the health and safety measures in place to remove dead wild birds.
Reporting suspected bird flu in poultry or captive birds
If you suspect any type of bird flu in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.
Please find the latest information below:
Complete a self assessment checklist if you keep birds
How to spot avian influenza (bird flu), what to do if you suspect it, and measures to prevent it
View advice for all captive bird and poultry keepers on GOV.UK (PDF)
Download a poster - 'Do you keep chickens, ducks, geese...?' on GOV.UK (PDF)