A fresh bird flu warning has been issued in Glasgow after 22 swans were found dead at a city park.The number of birds found dead at Knightswood Park has almost trebled in just a few days.
Six swans were found dead on Tuesday morning and a further two who were displaying symptoms were put down by the SSPCA. Glasgow City Council has now issued a warning to the public and confirmed they are currently taking measures to limit the spread of the virus, reports Glasgow Live.
A council spokesperson said: "Sadly, an increasing number of birds at Knightswood Park have died from suspected bird flu or have been put down to ease their suffering.
“The suspected outbreak of the virus at the park is having a significant impact on the bird population at the park. Limiting the spread of the virus in the park is crucial and we have ensured the dead animals are being removed as quickly as possible."
The news comes just weeks after an outbreak of avian flu killed 23 swans at Hogganfield Loch on the north-east of the city. The current outbreak is believed to be the worst in Scotland in terms of transmission and mortality rates.
The council urged the public not to touch any of the dead or sick birds, remain on footpaths, and keep dogs away from the pond area. They said it's likely that more birds at the pond will have contracted the virus with the outbreak expected to have a severe impact on the bird population.
The spokesperson added: "The public also has an important role in helping to prevent the transfer of the virus and they should follow the advice that will be displayed around the park
“We ask that dogs are kept on leads close to areas where the infection is suspected and that people do not feed the birds as this encourages the birds to congregate.
“People are also asked not to touch a dead or sick bird, including any feathers, and should also avoid ground covered with wild bird droppings. If anyone sees a dead or sick bird in public places across the city, they should report this to our environmental health team through our website or by calling 0141 287 1059 . People can also report on-line at the DEFRA website.”
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