Avian Influenza (bird flu) in Lincolnshire

Avian Influenza (bird flu) in Lincolnshire

Some parts of Lincolnshire (Sleaford and Woodhall Spa) are now in a Prevention Zone due to known cases
of Avian Influenza being found. See Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map . More cases
are expected so the public are encouraged to be observant.

A number of dead birds have been spotted in the area, with some concerns over Avian Flu being the possible cause although this has not been confirmed at this time.

Residents have reported numerous dead swans in Grantham Canal and Denton Reservoir.

The deaths have been reported to the RSPCA, DEFRA, South Kesteven District Council, and the Canal and River Trust, who ar responsible for the water in both canal and reservoir, however there appears to be confusion over which agency is resppnsible for their removal, particulalry when they are actually in the water and not easily reachable

The UK Government continues to advise not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. If you have already touched the bird, please wash your hands immediately, along with any surfaces you may have made contact with.

Where practical and within resources, all efforts will be made to remove the swans and identify the cause of death.

From:

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency

Published

26 August 2014

Last updated

18 October 2022

Reporting dead wild birds

You should call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77) if you find:

  • one or more dead bird of prey or owl

  • 3 or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks) 

  • 5 or more dead birds of any species

Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. For further information see our advice to the public.