Witney Town Council is saddened to confirm that a deceased swan retrieved from Witney Lake has tested positive for avian (bird) flu -Avian Influenza (H5N1). A second swan has also since died.
We know how much our community cares about the wildlife at the lake, and this news will be upsetting for many. We are working closely with the appropriate agencies and will continue to carefully monitor the health of our wild birds.
Please do not attempt to collect or touch dead birds, or birds that appear sick or behaving unusually. Please report them directly to Defra using the link below:
Report dead or sick wild birds:
Defra Helpline: 03459 33 55 77Thank you for helping us do the right things to protect the lake and its wildlife.
Poster Text
BIRD FLU HAS BEEN DETECTED IN THIS AREA DON’T RISK SPREADING IT!
Keep to the footpath.
Keep dogs on leads.
Do not feed wild waterfowl.
Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds.
Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings.
If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds.
Please report dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese, or ducks) or
other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey to Defra’s
GB helpline: 03459 335577.
Find out more at:
• GOV.UK/Bird-Flu
• GOV.SCOT/avianinfluenza
• GOV.WALES/avian-influenza-bird-flu