Bird flu fears erupted in a UK city after multiple swans were found dead. Several swans have been discovered dead at Backwell Lake near Bristol, sparking concerns over a potential bird flu outbreak. The Curious Critters charity reported that the swans displayed an unusual symptom before dying, that their eyes had turned blue.
The charity said it is “very confident” that the deaths are linked to an Avian Influenza outbreak. Working closely with Bath Swan Rescue and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), five deceased swans were safely collected this morning.
A spokesperson for Curious Critters said: “On Sunday, November 9, we were made aware of multiple deceased swans at Backwell Lake.
“Having liaised closely with Bath Swan Rescue and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), safe collection of five deceased swans took place this morning (Monday, November 10).
“Whilst we would typically wait for final lab results prior to an announcement, multiple of the swans sadly displayed a very unique symptom of Avian Influenza – their eyes had changed to a characteristic blue colour.
“This happens when the virus affects the cells lining the cornea. We are very confident we are looking at an Avian Influenza outbreak and would ask that the community please follow the guidelines on the poster attached [to the Facebook post] to help prevent spread.
“Retrieving the deceased swans will have played a huge role in safeguarding the remaining wildlife. I want to thank Bath Swan Rescue who yet again gave invaluable advice, equipment, and helped co-ordinated this whole mission. Please be considerate during this sad time, and do all you can to keep yourself, your pets and the wildlife safe.”
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