A Liverpool animal rescue centre has published a warning to those thinking of bringing sick birds to its site, as avian flu hits the area.
Posting on social media, Freshfield Animal Rescue said that with bird flu cases confirmed near the shelter, the animal rescue service is now on “high alert”. The statement said: “The risk to us of avian influenza is now very high – please do not bring any birds to our Liverpool rescue.
“There has been a confirmed case of Avian Influenza near us – the proximity of this to us means we are now on high alert. One positive case of avian influenza on site would result in us having to destroy all our birds, both wild and farm birds.
“We must protect the birds already in our care and so we reluctantly have no choice but to close our doors to any new admittances. This is not something we ever want to do but I am sure you understand the situation.
“We are more than happy to help you find a rehabilitator or wildlife vet for a bird in need of help. Please contact us by messenger, email wildlife@freshfields.org.uk or telephone the rescue for help. Please do not come to the rescue.
“A case of Avian Influenza onsite would not only mean destroying our birds but by law, we would have to shut our doors to all animals until we could be cleared to re-open by Defra.”
Source: www.liverpoolecho.co.uk
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