Council issues updated advice as bird flu deaths continue to rise on Aberdeenshire coastline
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A significant number of suspected Avian Influenza cases have been reported around the Aberdeenshire coastline.
Balmedie, in particular, has seen considerable numbers.
A clean-up on Sunday by trained volunteers counted 95 seabirds of all ages, including 62 gannets, 27 guillemots, three herring gulls, two razorbills and a kittiwake.
Aberdeenshire Council has updated public guidance, which comes in the wake of a call for an update from local MSP Gillian Martin.
A spokesperson said: "While we appreciate that the summer holidays have just begun and thoughts will turn to heading for our fantastic beaches, we must advise of a number of suspected new cases of Avian Influenza which have sadly claimed a significant number of seabirds in recent days.
"Please be assured that while our beaches remain safe and the threat of transmission to humans is very low, it is still important that you follow this safety advice-
• Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
• Keep pets/dogs away from any dead or sick birds
• Don't feed wild waterfowl
• Don't touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with droppings
"We would urge anyone visiting Aberdeenshire’s beaches and wider coastline to remain vigilant and report any dead birds to Defra’s national helpline on 03459 335577.
"If you come across a grouping of 10 or more dead birds please also call our own dedicated phoneline on 01467 537444.
"If you find a live but sick bird call the SSPCA on 03000 999999.
The risk of transmission from dead birds to humans is considered to be very low.
There are other diseases however, that can be picked up so the advice remains to stay away from carcasses and to keep dogs/pets under control and away from them.
More details on avian influenza HERE
