A bird flu warning has been issued after several dead geese were found at a park in Rochdale. Members of the public are being urged not to touch any dead or sick birds they see in Queen's Park in Heywood, while dog walkers are also advised to keep their pets away.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We are aware of this situation at Queen's Park and we have officers in attendance dealing with the sad situation. Unfortunately a high numbers of sick and dying birds are being reported across the UK due to the ongoing and severe UK-wide avian flu outbreak, which is continuing to spread through bird populations.
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"It's been devastating for the RSPCA - and wildlife lovers across the country - to see birds perish from this awful disease. Avian flu can be carried by all bird species, but seabirds, waterfowl and birds of prey are the most common species reported.
"This is a highly contagious disease within birds and it’s important to take all precautions to stop its spread. The UK government continues to advise not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find.
"If you have already touched the bird, please wash your hands immediately, along with any surfaces you may have made contact with. For more information, please check our online advice about what to do if you find a sick or injured bird. If you do call us for help, please bear with us, as our rescue teams are under a lot of pressure."
A Rochdale council spokesman said no cases of avian flu had been confirmed in Queen's Park, but said the 'relevant agencies' had been contacted about the dead birds.
Coun Liam O’Rourke, the council's cabinet member for climate change and environment, said: "We are aware of the dead birds in Queen's Park and the relevant agencies have been contacted. You should not touch or pick up any dead or sick birds that you find."
In a statement on Facebook the Friends of Queens Park said: "Sadly the bird flu has reached our lake in the park! Please be aware that the ranger is doing his best to work with this awful situation.
"There is no treatment available for this disease and sadly it spreads quickly from bird to bird. There is a company who will remove the dead birds as quickly as possible but as I’m sure you can appreciate they are very busy with this outbreak.
"The RSPCA are currently doing tests to confirm and are concerned that creatures who may be feasting on the carcasses may become sick and die. Please keep your dogs on a lead and stay away from the lake as a precaution because this disease is deadly with no known treatment."
Earlier today a bird flu outbreak was confirmed at Alexandra Park in Oldham. All activities on the park's boating lake, including fishing, have been stopped until further notice.
A record number of cases of avian flu have been identified across the UK, as the world faces its worst-ever outbreak.
Dead birds found in public areas in Rochdale should be reported to the council on 0300 303 8884. Any suspected cases of avian flu should be reported to the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Rural Services helpline on 03000 200 301.
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