Bird Flu Outbreak Behind Multiple Swan Deaths

A bird flu outbreak has been identified as the cause behind the deaths of multiple swans, raising concerns about the spread of the virus among wild bird populations. Authorities and wildlife officials are monitoring the situation closely, advising caution in affected areas and urging the public to avoid contact with sick or dead birds. Preventive measures are being reinforced to limit further transmission and protect both wildlife and public health.

A long-standing pair of swans that had been a familiar sight at Lincoln’s Brayford Pool for many years have both died after contracting bird flu, university specialists have confirmed.

According to researchers from the Lincoln Swan Project, the deaths of the two adult swans, along with one cygnet, were caused by avian influenza, specifically the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain. This marks the first recorded case of this aggressive virus appearing within the city’s swan population, and there is currently no cure available.

Wildlife experts are keeping a close watch on developments and are urging people to avoid touching or feeding the birds. The Lincoln Swan Project is jointly led by Dr Laetitia Marechal of the University of Lincoln and Dr Jenny Dunne from Keele University. Together, they study the behaviour of more than 300 swans, with members of the public contributing sightings through a dedicated app.

Dr Marechal described the lost swans as well-known figures around Brayford Pool. She explained that the pair had lived in the area for nearly a decade and sadly succumbed to avian flu in December, along with one of their young. She added that the H5N1 strain spreads rapidly and has been responsible for significant bird deaths worldwide, affecting swans, geese, and many other species.

Dr Marechal stressed that treating infected birds is not possible and that attempting to move them can further spread the virus. Authorities continue to advise the public to keep their distance from wild birds and refrain from feeding or handling them. An Animal and Plant Health Agency spokesperson confirmed awareness of several wild bird deaths in the Lincoln area, noting that two mute swans collected from Brayford Pool in November tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.

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Source: BBC‍