UPDATE @ 13:55 – Bird flu has now been confirmed on the Isle of Wight. Read more on this story at https://www.islandecho.co.uk/bird-flu-confirmed-on-the-isle-of-wight/.
Investigations are underway to determine whether bird flu is to blame for the unusually high number of swan deaths in Ryde recently.
Over the last few days, 4 swans have been found deceased at the Canoe Lake with a further 3 discovered over the past 2 weeks.
Concerns have been raised that this could be as a result of the highly virulent and deadly bird flu H5N8, which is currently spreading across the country. Although bird flu is not confirmed as being close to the Island as of yet, Ryde is home to a number of migratory birds.
Isle of Wight Wildbird Rehabilitation says the authorities – including the Police, DEFRA, the Council and the RSPCA – have been informed of the deaths. The organisation is now urging people to stay away from the canoe lake and surrounding area as a precautionary measure at this stage.
A spokesperson for the local rescue organisation has said:
“If these birds are dying due to bird flu, any movement in the area could spread it far and wide. Stay away from other waterways and farmland especially where poultry are kept until you have disinfected yourself/footwear and washed/changed your clothes. Every bird could be at risk…
“Please, don’t be complacent. Although marginally speculative, the island economy has suffered enough.
Article continues below this advertisement “Do not touch any dead or ailing bird at the lake. Call Defra on 03459335577“.
Although there could be any number of reasons for the deaths, it is hoped that tests will be carried out by officials in due course to rule out bird flu. When previous deaths have occurred it’s determined that the animals were overweight and suffered from heart attacks and fits. In addition, others died due to bread and other feed being stuck in their gullets.
Sadly, if bird flu is confirmed as being present at the Canoe Lake then all of the birds – including swans, geese and ducks – would be culled.
Island Echo witnessed no deceased animals at the Canoe Lake on Wednesday morning, with in excess of 25 swans seemingly healthy and active.
New rules came into force 2 days ago that mean all poultry and other birds should now be kept inside with additional biometric security. Read more at https://www.islandecho.co.uk/poultry-and-captive-birds-on-the-isle-of-wight-must-be-kept-inside-from-14th-december/.
