Avian Influenza – Information on Handling Dead Wild Birds
24th February 2006
LACORS (Local Authority Coordinating Office on Regulatory Services) are aware that local authorities are receiving a large number of calls from members of the public about dead wild birds.
Defra have issued guidance on their website for the public in relation to dead wild birds.
The Defra guidance advises that the public should call the Defra helpline (08459 33 55 77) if they find –
One or more dead swans, ducks or geese or
More than three dead birds of the same species, or
More than five dead birds of different species in the same place
Callers will be asked to provide details of the finding and location.
The Defra guidance also advises that not all birds reported to the Defra helpline will be collected for testing. Where bird carcasses aren’t collected it will be the responsibility of the owner/manager of the land to arrange for disposal of the carcases.
The Welsh Assembly Government has advised local authorities that the one off garden bird is not a problem, and people should dispose of those in the usual way.
The extent of the legal obligation on the part of local authorities to collect dead birds on private land is something which LACORS are trying to determine. However, LACORS are aware that there is an increasing amount of public pressure on local authorities to arrange collection of dead wild birds, particularly aquatic species or where there is a perceived risk to human health.
Where birds are found on council maintained properties and highways, and are not collected by the SVS for the purposes of testing, then local authorities may want to remove the carcases. However, in these circumstances it may be appropriate to carry out an individual risk assessment of the situation, which will need to consider the location and accessibility of the carcass.
If local authorities are collecting wild bird carcasses in consideration of the information above, then appropriate health and safety measures should be taken. The Defra website advises the public that if dead birds are handled, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water as quickly as possible. Consideration should also be given to the use of disposable gloves. You should avoid touching you face and certainly do not eat until your hands have been washed. Any soiled clothing must be cleaned with soap and water.
However, there is also additional advice on the Defra website for those working with and handling poultry/birds. LACORS recommend that this guidance is fully reviewed before undertaking the collection of wild bird carcasses.