Public advice after reports of dead seabirds

This article is more than 2 years old

Gulls swimming over the sea.Fife Council is working with partner agencies following reports of dead seabirds off the Fife coast and elsewhere in Scotland.

There is a risk that dead or ill sea birds may appear on Fife's shores.  At this time Avian Influenza has not been ruled out so it's important that the following guidance is followed:

  • Don't pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
  • Keep pets/dogs away from any dead or sick birds
  • Don't feed wild waterfowl
  • Don't 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 any dead wild waterfowl to DEFRA's hotline: 03459 335577 (Monday to Friday). If the DEFRA hotline is unavailable then please telephone 03451 550099 so we can still record your incident.

If you find a live but ailing bird call SSPCA 03000 999 999

Find out more at www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu