BIRDKEEPERS are being ‘strongly urged’ to make sure their animals are contained after a goose at Jersey Zoo died from avian flu.
The captive red-breasted goose is the third known bird in Jersey to have died from the disease, following the death of two buzzards last month.
The death of the goose was reported on 22 February and tests this week confirmed the presence of avian flu.
Jersey Zoo has now closed its walk-through aviaries, but has moved to reassure Islanders that it is still safe to visit the wildlife park.
Alistair Breed, Jersey’s chief veterinary officer, said: ‘Upon testing, the bird from the Zoo was found to be positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza. Following on from this, we will shortly be introducing compulsory biosecurity measures relating to poultry and kept birds on the whole Island.
‘Private birdkeepers should do everything possible at this time to ensure their flocks avoid contact with wild birds. We are working closely with the Zoo on control measures there to help protect their collection.’
Graeme Dick, director of zoo operations, said that staff were doing everything possible to keep the park’s birds safe.
‘Our priority is to prevent further spread of bird flu at Jersey Zoo by following all guidance issued by the chief veterinary officer,’ he said.
‘We have closed our walk-through aviaries, but I would like to reassure our visitors that it is still safe to visit the Zoo and we are monitoring the situation closely.’
The UK Health Security Agency has advised that the risk to public health from bird flu is low.
