Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in West Cumbria.
Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners said positive cases of avian influenza have been reported in the Whitehaven Harbour area.
It added that the public does not need to panic – but that people and dog walkers visiting the harbour should be vigilant.
The safety advice for visiting the harbour is as follows:
- Keep dogs on a lead at all times
- Do not touch wild birds that are dead, injured, sick or healthy
- Do not feed wild birds
- Wash your hands thoroughly if you come into contact with bird feathers or droppings
The commissioners added while it may be upsetting to see sick or injured birds, that people should not approach or handle them.
Those who keep wild poultry or other birds should wash their hands, clean and disinfect their footwear before tending to their birds.
People are urged to call the commissioners on 01946 590515 or leave a message if they see a sick or injured bird.
For birds in the water, call 01946 692435 to report this to Whitehaven Marina.
Dead birds can also be reported online to Defra here or call the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency may collect some dead birds for surveillance testing.
Otherwise, dead wild birds are able to be disposed of safely by the council or public landowners.
