Avian flu warning from Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital

Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital in Kibworth has announced it will no longer admit high risk bird species from certain areas for treatment –
due to growing fears about Avian Flu.

These include all waterfowl – such as ducks, swans and geese – plus seabirds and birds of prey – which you’re asked not to take to the
centre.

The local rescue and rehabilitation charity says it will provide assessments on the ‘phone but urges people NOT to touch any visibly sick
or dead birds.

Earlier this year Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital launched a £40,000 fundraising drive to set-up a quarantine unit – to allow them to treat
more sick birds and animals whilst preventing the spread of diseases like bird flu.

If you find any dead waterfowl or other wild birds whilst you’re out and about, you’re asked to report them to the DEFRA helpline on 0345 933 55 77.