A new task force is being formed in a bid to tackle the avian flu crisis.
The outbreak was responsible for the deaths of thousands of migrating barnacle geese on the Solway during the winter with dead birds being reported across Dumfries and Galloway.
And remains have also been discovered across Scotland, including in Shetland, St Kilda and East Lothian.
NatureScot will lead the new group in a bid to co-ordinate a national response with government, local authorities and conservation organisations also involved. Key priorities will include planning for an effective response to potential future outbreaks and variants and taking action to help protect and restore bird populations.
NatureScot chief executive Francesca Osowska said: “The avian flu crisis has been rapidly evolving and deteriorating.
“Tragically, this disease could be with us for some time to come with early evidence confirming avian flu has moved into our urban gull and raptor populations, developments we and partners are monitoring closely. Responding to this crisis involves a national endeavour and this task force will bring together partners who are already doing fantastic work to better share expertise and co-ordinate action on the ground.
“In the long-term we know this is an international crisis which requires an international response.
“Here in Scotland, the Scottish Government’s new Scottish biodiversity strategy, which is currently out for consultation, is responding to this challenge, setting out ambitious plans to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and reverse it by 2045.”
