Avian Flu October Update

Update 3rd October 2022

Dead birds are still being recorded from the lake. On Saturday twelve birds (mainly ducks, geese and coot) were collected. Each bird is being logged with DEFRA and then incinerated after about a week if birds are not requested for testing.

Thanks to everyone who is taking the time to send in records.

Update 7th September:

For the duration of this outbreak we have discontinued the use of our bird feeders. This is because feeders can potentially act as a hub for transmission of the disease

29th August

We regret to say that we are currently experiencing an outbreak of Avian Flu at Stocker’s Lake. Several dead birds have recently been found. To help us manage things, and until further notice, please do the following whenever you visit the lake…….

• Make sure you keep your dog (and yourself!) out of the water

• If you come across a dead bird please do not touch it

• Instead please report it by emailing HMWT at birdflu@hmwt.org. If you know the species of bird please state this in your email. Please also describe the number of birds involved, their condition and, as accurately as you can, their location. (What3 Words is great for this.)

• To avoid spreading the disease please clean your footwear when you get home

For further information, including how to report a dead bird found elsewhere, please refer to HMWT’s Avian Flu advice webpage.

We will keep you updated via this website.