I know I am not BU so no poll, but I'm posting here for traffic.
It seems like government and councils are just hoping this goes away but there's an unfolding tragedy going on in our wild bird populations, which lots of you will be aware of already, but it seems many aren't yet.
It's not a new problem, but the latest strain of avian flu is wreaking havoc amongst our seabird populations. In the UK it affected the north first but has now moved south. There are thousands of dead and dying seabirds washing in on beaches, and can be seen floating at sea. These mainly seem to consist of gannets at gulls at the moment. The disease has spread from extremely intensive poultry farming probably in the far east (sound familiar?) and is now in wild birds especially seabirds who nest together in crowded colonies, and is spreading to mammal species e.g. foxes and seals. Nesting season is over now but the birds are taking the virus out to sea.
It's heartbreaking to see them ill and dying but please if you are out and about don't handle them. Be really careful with dogs and don't let them nose dead birds. This morning I have seen children playing near dead seabirds and collecting feathers to decorate sandcastles - please don't let them! And if you have cats who hunt, be aware that there will be a lot of dying birds out there who might be easier to catch than normal - there is a potential risk to them too.
Here's the advice from the RSPB.
While "official" people who are handling the birds are taking no chances and are gloved and masked, it's really important to remember the risk to humans is low - it's the birds and animals who are suffering. It's one more bloody pressure.