Bird keepers warned Avian flu detected in North Northants after Peregrine Falcon found dead in Higham Ferrers

Peregrine Falcons had been seen nesting on St Mary’s Church spire
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Bird keepers and the public have been asked to be on alert after a case of Avian (bird) flu was detected in a dead Peregrine Falcon in Higham Ferrers.

The Peregrine was tested as part of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Wild Surveillance programme, set up to detect the spread of Avian Influenzas in the UK.

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All bird keepers of pet birds, commercial flocks or a backyard flock have been asked to keep a ‘close watch’ on them for signs of disease, and to maintain good biosecurity.

A Peregrine Falcon - library pictureA Peregrine Falcon - library picture
A Peregrine Falcon - library picture

Councillor David Brackenbury, North Northants Council’s executive member for growth and regeneration said: “With cases of Avian flu on the rise, we are encouraging everyone who keeps poultry or captive birds to register with the APHA, even if you only keep birds as pets.

“Registration will ensure keepers are kept up to date with the latest Avian flu developments, both locally and nationally.

“The UK Health Security Agency has said that the risk to the general public from Avian Flu is very low, but we would encourage everyone to avoid contact with dead or sick wild birds and residents are advised not to touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with droppings.”

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Avian influenza refers to the disease caused by infection with Avian influenza (bird flu) Type A viruses. These viruses naturally spread among wild birds and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species.

Councillor Jason Smithers leader of the council added: “I would encourage everyone to make sure they are up to date with the latest rules and regulations to ensure we can prevent the spread of Avian flu and avoid any more cases in North Northamptonshire.”

For all the latest information in relation to the spread of Avian Flu, including the housing measures which have now been brought in for Norfolk, Suffolk and parts of Essex and for information on how you can help to protect your birds please visit central Government’s Avian flu information at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu.

Anyone who suspects any type of bird flu in poultry or captive birds must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.