The historic royal census counted a 40 p.c drop within the variety of cygnets on the River Thames, in contrast with final yr.
Only 94 cygnets have been discovered on the five-day search, with the King’s swan marker, David Barber, saying the end result was “disappointing” however, due to bird flu, anticipated.
A rising downside of violence, together with shootings, catapult assaults and canine killing swans, has additionally been blamed, in addition to excessive flood-water washing away nests.
Mr Barber, who was in command of the depend which covers the Thames from London to Abingdon in Oxfordshire, stated the impression of chook flu had been “horrendous, terrible to see.
The number of cygnets was down from 155 in 2022, but those found were “in good condition”, stated Mr Barber.
Since October 1, 2022 there have been 190 confirmed instances of extremely pathogenic avian influenza within the UK.
There have been 158 instances reported in England, 24 in Scotland, eight in Wales and one in Northern Ireland.
In uncommon instances, chook flu can have an effect on people - it’s unfold by shut contact with an contaminated chook (lifeless or alive).
This may embody touching contaminated birds, touching droppings or bedding, or killing and getting ready contaminated poultry for cooking.
The NHS says the primary signs of chook flu can seem in a short time and embody:
Other early signs could embody:
The well being physique says when you suspect chook flu in poultry or different captive birds, you should report it instantly by calling:
03000 200 301 when you're in England
03003 038 268 when you're in Wales
APHA Field Services when you're in Scotland
It provides: “Bird flu is a notifiable disease in poultry and other captive birds. If you do not report it, you’re breaking the law.”
Signs a chook could also be contaminated with chook flu embody:
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