The cause of death of a number of birds at Caerphilly Castle has been confirmed. In December, members of the public were warned against feeding the birds after a number were spotted dead and unwell.
Locals reported seeing a number of deceased swans, ducks and geese outside the castle as well as in Morgan Jones Park. Cadw - the Welsh Government body responsible for the castle - erected a sign in the area telling the public to stay away from dead or ill birds. It stated: "Warning for the prevention of avian flu contamination: Please do not feed the birds or touch any dead animals. Dogs must be kept on leads and away from the water. All dead birds need to be reported to Caerphilly Castle. Thank you for your cooperation."
Laboratory results have now confirmed the cause of death as avian flu. No dead birds have been reported in the last week, but advice remains to keep away from sick or dead animals. You can get more Caerphilly news and other story updates straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters here.
Read more: Shocking video shows moment boy is struck by car as he runs across Caerphilly town centre road
A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “From the outset a precautionary approach was taken with the response based on the likelihood the cause of the sad death of the birds at Caerphilly Castle was avian flu. Well established procedures for avian flu in wild birds were followed, working closely with Cadw to guide visitors appropriately, particularly to prevent spread of infection to kept birds.
"Laboratory confirmation of the disease would not lead to any extra measures being introduced, and as expected it has been confirmed as avian flu. While no further birds have been found over the past week and a half, Cadw staff will continue to monitor the situation. People should not touch sick or dead birds but the risk to human health from avian influenza remains low.”
READ NEXT:
- 'My son disappeared 10 years ago and I've no idea what happened'
- The latest death notices across the Valleys and Bridgend as families remember loved ones
- The house that's cheaper than a second hand car but there are no floors or windows
- Passenger stranded overnight after Transport for Wales train broke down
- BBC weather forecasts snow for large parts of Wales
