Thousands of Alderney birds at risk as Avian flu is spreading
THOUSANDS of Alderney birds are at risk of dying as the outbreak of avian flu continues to spread.
The States of Alderney yesterday confirmed the island was an Avian Influenza Infected Area, with domestic bird movements closed down.
The island’s gannet colonies make up to 2% of the global population, and more than 10% of those have died in less than three weeks.
The Alderney Wildlife Trust is preparing for that number to increase significantly.
‘We are trying to recover as much information as we can about the spread,’ said AWT chief executive Roland Gauvain.
People are being asked to report any dead birds they come across so a clear picture can be built up of the extent of the spread. Reports of dead birds are rare, but over the last few weeks more than 50 have been recorded.
One of the first dead birds collected was fitted with a 3G tracker in 2015 as part of the island’s Track-a-Gannet programme and had flown farthest north of all the tagged gannets that year – 358km.
It was found dead on Saye Beach on 22 July and tested positive for bird flu.
‘A lot of the birds are washing up dead and we are not seeing all of them, it is very hard to judge.’ said Mr Gauvain.
Due to the recording work taking place over the last 15 years, AWT has said it is in a unique position as it allows for progress of the disease to be charted so findings can be reported to the scientific community.
French authorities have reported significant numbers washing up onto the country's coastline. A small flock of poultry was culled on 16 August after one case of the disease was discovered within it.
Mr Gauvain said that any sick bird will be euthanised in a bid stop the spread.
A small flock of chickens has already been destroyed due to the outbreak. Owners are advised to take measures to prevent wild birds having contact with their poultry.
‘Avian Influenza is primarily a disease affecting birds and therefore the health risk to the general public is very low,’ said GSC chairman Boyd Kelly.
‘However, we want to protect our domestic flocks as well as do our best for our amazing wildlife.’
n Anyone finding a dead bird should call the States of Alderney 01481 820080, in Guernsey 01481 234567 and Jersey 01534 441600. Do not touch dead birds.
