11 Feb 2025
View over Seaton Wetlands

The Countryside Team has reported a positive Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) case at Seaton Wetlands, affecting a juvenile herring gull.

The Team are asking visitors to report any sick or dead birds they see in public areas to them, but not to touch them. The sick birds are usually located on Black Hole Marsh which is being monitored by the team daily. All sightings are being reported to Defra by the Countryside team.

At present the outbreak has been limited to herring gulls, mainly juveniles, and a single Canada goose. Despite popular belief, herring gulls are on the Red List of Conservation Concern due to ongoing population declines and wintering population declines, to be further impacted by this fatal disease is deeply concerning.

James Chubb, Countryside Manager at East Devon District Council said:
“It is with great sadness that we have reported an outbreak of avian influenza at Seaton Wetlands. We are liaising closely with Defra on next steps and following their advice during this time.

“Sadly, avian flu is a disease that is spread between wild birds and aquatic birds like gulls, ducks and geese are considered most at risk. Whilst we can’t stop this happening, but we can help our wild birds to be healthy and thrive, to withstand disease outbreaks like this. We are asking visitors not to feed any birds on site, and to stick to public footpaths. It is crucial that birds remain undisturbed as the stress of disturbance can increase transmission of the virus.

“Birds such as gulls already face pressures from habitat loss and pollution, and nature reserves such as Seaton Wetlands remain a vital line of defence for their survival.

“We will continue to monitor the state of the population. It is a relief that this is happening at the end of winter and we hope that the improving spring weather helps birds develop more resistance to this horrible disease. We thank all our visitors for their support and understanding at this time.”

Members of the public are asked to report any dead birds seen close to a public area or on a footpath at Seaton Wetlands here: Report dead animals - East Devon

Visitors to Seaton Wetlands that keep birds or poultry wash are reminded to wash their hands and boots thoroughly after visiting the wetlands before interacting with their birds to avoid the spread of the disease.

Current evidence shows little risk to humans from bird flu and the Countryside team has no plans to close the reserve.

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