Cases of avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 have been confirmed in wild birds at several sites across borough.
Bodies of two dead birds found at Treeton Dyke earlier this month have tested positive for the virus. The Council are currently investigating reports of other birds in the area.
Rotherham Council are advising walkers to take care when walking near open bodies of water and to pay attention to information signs at sites such as Treeton Dyke and at the country parks.
Bird keepers are also asked to remain vigilant and to report any concerns of avian flu to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), even if the signs are mild.
Avian influenza is a potentially fatal virus for wild, poultry, game and captive birds, with symptoms including:
• swollen head
• closed and runny eyes
• lethargy and depression
• breathing difficulties such as gaping (mouth breathing), nasal snicking (coughing sound), sneezing, gurgling or rattling
• fever or noticeable increase in body temperature
• discoloured or loose watery droppings
• stop or significant drop in egg production
Another symptom would be if a bird dies suddenly without any evidence of ill health or natural causes.
Some species such as ducks, geese and swans can carry the avian influenza virus and spread it without showing any signs of illness.
If you do find a dead bird in a park or public space, you should not touch or move the body. Report it straight away to Rotherham Council by emailing Thrybergh.CountryPark@rotherham.gov.uk or by calling the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs helpline on 0345 933 5577.
If you suspect bird flu in poultry or other captive birds, you must report it immediately by calling the APHA on 03000 200 301. Failure to do is breaking the law.
