Avian flu remains an issue on parts of the Northumberland Coast - and there are fears migratory flocks returning to the UK this winter could make the problem worse.
The Government has brought in new measures to protect poultry and captive birds from the ongoing epidemic and bird keepers in the county are being urged to stick to the rules.
From Monday, it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep them indoors. This includes pet birds as well as commercial flocks or even just a few birds in a backyard flock.
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A "highly contagious" variant of avian flu was first confirmed on Holy Island in February, with a second outbreak confirmed in Wooler the following week. Since then it has devastated important seabird colonies off the Northumberland Coast.
In July, the situation was described as an "unprecedented wildlife tragedy", with rangers collecting more than 3,000 dead birds. It was expected the death toll was significantly higher, with fears any thousands more have succumbed to the deadly disease and fallen off the cliffs into the North Sea.
Philip Soderquest Director of housing and public protection at Northumberland County Council said: “Wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe during the winter months can carry the disease and where wild birds are allowed to mix with domestic birds, or there is a risk of contamination form bird droppings, this can lead to the disease spreading to captive birds.
“Unfortunately, there continues to be avian influenza in wild birds in the northern coastal area of Northumberland, so it is especially important that local bird keepers adhere to these new rules.”
UK birdkeepers are also asked to undertake other strict biosecurity measures to help limit the spread of the disease and keep flocks safe. This includes regularly cleaning and disinfecting equipment, clothing and vehicles when entering or exiting sites and limiting access to non-essential workers or visitors.
Any suspected cases of avian flu in captive birds must be reported to DEFRA on 0300 0200301. If a member of the public comes across a dead wild bird, they are asked to report it to DEFRA on 03459 335577 (select option 7) and not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds.
The council advises that providing good location information for a dead or diseased bird is particularly important and location apps such as 'what3words', references can be very helpful.
Bird keepers are also advised to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, report suspected disease immediately and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns. Moving sick birds from premises should be avoided to help prevent any possible spread of disease.
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