There are fears over a bird flu outbreak on the Isle of Wight after more than 40 gulls were found dead near the Needles.
The birds were discovered on shingles by paddle boarders at Scratchells Bay yesterday evening (Friday).
It’s said the incident has been reported to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), which is believed to be investigating.
Islanders are being advised to avoid the area until the birds have been removed.
Meanwhile, concerns over the UK’s Avian Influenza outbreak have had an impact on the the Isle of Wight’s White-tailed eagle reintroduction programme.
The next cohort of chicks was due to be relocated to the Isle of Wight in June, however the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation — which runs the project alongside Forestry England — has made the decision to postpone.
“The worsening situation… has resulted in major mortality of breeding seabirds around eastern and northern coasts of the UK, and poses a considerable risk to White-tailed Eagles – which can contract the virus by eating infected carcasses”, it said.
Plans are afoot to extend its licence to account for the missed year.
Currently it allows for the release of 60 White-tailed Eagles over the course of five years, with the aim of establishing an initial population of six to eight breeding pairs on the Isle of Wight and surrounding areas of the South Coast.
DEFRA is urging anyone who suspects any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you to report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.
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