Rise in Bird Flu Cases Prompts Warnings for UK's Wild Birds
BTO urges public to report dead and sick birds as winter migration brings heightened risk of avian influenza
Spike in infections raises alarm
The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) has issued an urgent appeal to the public to report sightings of dead birds following a marked increase in confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) – commonly known as bird flu – among wild birds across the UK. Recent weeks have seen the virus detected in several species, including swans, geese and gulls, as migratory flocks arrive for the winter months.
With large numbers of birds arriving from northern Europe and beyond, scientists warn that the disease could again have devastating impacts on wild populations. Birdwatchers and conservationists have already noticed worrying signs of increased mortality, suggesting a period of high infection may be underway.
Species most at risk
Among those worst affected so far are waterbirds such as Mute Swans, Whooper Swans, geese and various gull species. These are often highly social species, which gather in large flocks at wetlands and coastal roosts – conditions that can accelerate the spread of disease.
There are growing fears that the UK could experience similar losses to those seen recently in mainland Europe. In Germany, for instance, more than 2,000 Common Cranes have died of bird flu in recent weeks, signalling how quickly outbreaks can escalate among migrating birds.
Scientists warn of “catastrophic” potential
Professor James Pearce-Higgins, BTO Director of Science, highlighted the severity of the threat: “The disease killed hundreds of thousands of wild birds across more than 150 species in the UK in 2021–2023 alone. Another catastrophic event this winter could kill tens of thousands more wild birds in the UK, particularly wildfowl like the Whooper Swan which we know are highly vulnerable, and winter here in internationally important numbers.”
He added that understanding where and when outbreaks occur is vital for informing government and conservation bodies on how best to respond and mitigate impacts.
Public asked to help track cases
Dawn Balmer, BTO Head of Surveys, encouraged everyone who spends time outdoors to report dead or sick birds: “We can all play a part in helping to understand which species are suffering mortality at this time by reporting all the dead birds that we find for possible collection and testing for HPAI. All records of dead and sick birds can also easily be submitted to BirdTrack, regardless of what we think the cause of death is, to help with general monitoring.”
All dead and sick birds should be reported to Defra (online or by calling 03459 33 55 77) or to DAERA in Northern Ireland. Records can also be submitted via BirdTrack, either through the website or the free mobile app. Defra and DAERA will determine whether carcasses are collected for testing.
Precautions and responsible behaviour
The public are reminded not to touch dead or visibly sick birds under any circumstances, and to keep dogs on leads near affected sites to avoid the further spread of the virus. Good hygiene and vigilance are essential as the UK enters another challenging winter for its wild bird populations.
November 2025
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