Bird flu confirmed after dead swans and geese found near castle

Bird flu has been confirmed as the cause of death of around a dozen dead swans and geese found near Caerphilly Castle before Christmas.

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

The birds were tested by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), which is part of the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

APHA, which works with Public Health Wales to monitor public health risks related to bird flu, has advised residents not to touch sick or dead birds.

A press release issued by Caerphilly County Borough Council on Friday, January 20 said signage is being put up around the castle to warn people of the potential risk.

The signage will advise residents to:

• 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.

Contact the DEFRA helpline on 03459 335577 to report dead birds.

Councillor Shayne Cook, who represents the Morgan Jones ward, said he has asked DEFRA, Cadw and the council if any measures could be taken to protect residents and other birds.

He continued: “I have asked for signs to be erected around the castle grounds warning of the dangers of bird flu and explaining how to report any further dead wild birds. I have also asked CCBC to keep the local primary school informed and updated. I urge residents to be vigil and not to touch any sick wild birds.”