An investigation into what caused a wave of wild bird deaths along Exeter Quay is still ongoing, with an outbreak of bird flu remaining a possibility.
Incidents of birds found dead at various locations along the quay, including near the main deck near Puerto Lounge and outside the Port Royal pub, have been reported to the RSCPA and the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The RSPCA has confirmed it is aware of several swans and geese which sadly died at Exeter Quay. He added that Defra had collected carcasses for testing.
Last Friday, March 25, a dead swan was reported in the Cricklepit Leat next to the Mace store. The owner of The Prospect told how a dead swan had remained visible on the dock since last Wednesday. Sightings of dead birds have also been reported to the Devon Wildlife Trust.
Read more: Police provide update after body found at Exeter Quay
A Defra spokesman said: “Inquiries are ongoing into reported wild bird deaths in the Exeter Quay area of Devon. We have no further comment at this time.”
Avian influenza – avian influenza – is a reportable infectious disease that affects wild, captive and commercially farmed birds. Avian influenza is primarily a disease of birds and the health risk to the general public is very low. However, the disease is taken very seriously as it is devastating to birds and spreads very quickly.
Defra is leading the campaign to manage the spread of bird flu, which has no known cure. When requested, the RSPCA works with the government and others to help tackle suspected outbreaks in local wild bird populations.
In line with government guidelines, the RSPCA is advising the public not to touch, move or transport sick or dead birds. Anyone who finds dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, should report them to the Defra helpline on 03459 335577. Members of the public must not pick up dead animals or visibly sick birds.
(Image: Defra)
APHA will then arrange to collect some of these birds and test them to help us understand how the disease is distributed geographically and in different types of birds, not all birds will be collected. For the latest updates on the Avian Flu situation, please click here.
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