People in Southport have been warned against entering a frozen lake to free swans.
Last week neighbours became concerned after a swan was spotted "trapped" in the ice. With temperatures dropping to below zero social media was full of photographs of the "distressing" scenes.
However, the council has now confirmed the swans are dying of "avian influenza" and said they are "aware" of the situation and cases naturally increase during the winter months".
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A post on Facebook said: "Regarding the distressing news that swans are getting stuck in the ice of the frozen Marine Lake. Please do not try to wade out to the birds as the lake depth is undulating, basically up and down like a roller coaster. It is not safe either to pick up the birds yourself."
A record number of cases of avian influenza, or "bird flu" as it’s commonly known, have been confirmed across England, Scotland, and Wales in wild and captive birds this winter.
An avian influenza outbreak can occur at any point in the year. However, the UK typically faces a seasonal increase in the risk of an avian influenza associated with the winter migration patterns of wild birds.
Infected wild waterfowl can then infect local and sedentary wild bird species, poultry, or other captive birds resulting in local transmission either directly between birds or indirectly by birds coming into contact with environmental contamination, including faeces and feathers from infected birds.
A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “We are aware of a small number of cases of suspected seasonal avian influenza presenting in deceased wildlife on Marine Lake, Southport. As is standard practice, this has been reported to the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.
“Cases of avian influenza naturally increase during winter months, coinciding with the winter migration patterns of wild birds. It is really important that people do not touch dead or sick birds. Infected wild birds can appear anywhere so if you see a dead bird, please do not touch it.
“Suspected cases should be reported to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.”
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