No new bird deaths reported near Caerphilly Castle

All dead swans and geese found near Caerphilly Castle have been collected, with no new deaths reported in the last week, Cadw has said.

The Welsh Government body responsible for the 13th century castle is continuing to warn visitors to stay clear of the wild birds, after avian influenza – better known as bird flu – is feared to have killed at least a dozen birds in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

The cause of the birds’ deaths is still unknown, with The Animal and Plant Health Agency still conducting tests.

Cadw staff continue to “monitor the situation”, and are still advising the public not to feed the wildlife. 

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is a virus generally found among wild aquatic birds that, in rare instances, has been passed to people – although the risk is small. 

A spokesperson for the Welsh Government said: “If you find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline 03459 335 577.

“Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick wild birds that you find.

“The Animal and Plant Health Agency will collect some of these birds and test them to help us understand how the disease is distributed geographically and in different types of bird.

“While Avian Flu is not confirmed, we are taking a precautionary approach and responding on the basis that this is the likely cause of the sad death of the birds at Caerphilly Castle.

“Laboratory confirmation of disease will not lead to any extra measures being introduced.”