Tours halted at Kelpie sculptures amid bird flu outbreak

Falkirk Council has confirmed they are monitoring cases of Avian flu in two local locations, at The Helix and Kinnaird pond. 

The park has a variety of species with ducks and swans believed to be among those on site. 

Strict new bird flu restrictions have been rolled out across Scotland after a surge in cases of the virus. 

A national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) came into force last month in a bid to stop the highly contagious disease from spreading among poultry and other captive birds. 

Tours have been halted for four days, it is reported (Image: NQ) It is now a legal requirement for all bird keepers in Scotland and England to follow strict rules to protect their flocks from the threat of avian flu – including keeping birds indoors. 

The highly contagious avian influenza virus is currently circulating in wild birds in the UK and their risk to poultry and other captive birds is currently assessed as being very high, the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said. 

The current risk to human health remains low and properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat, the UK Government added. 

The measures apply to all bird keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock. 

Rules include regularly changing clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures for keepers with more than 500 birds, as well as cleansing and disinfecting site vehicles. 

The whole of Scotland has been issued with a bird flu alert (Image: NQ) In January, Scotland’s deputy chief vet officer Jesus Gallego said: “While the risk to public health is very low, we are currently experiencing a heightened risk of an incursion from this virus and so it is vital that appropriate precautions are taken to protect poultry and other captive birds from infection. 

“The introduction of this zone is a preventative measure, aimed at minimising the effect that this often devastating virus can have on Scottish-kept birds”. 

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A spokesperson for Falkirk Council said today: “Signage has been placed at both locations to advise visitors of the situation and the precautions they should take. The risk to the public remains low, but we urge residents to follow the guidance in place. 

“At The Helix, park staff are taking appropriate safety measures including approved procedures for the removal of deceased birds. Access to areas where swans gather has been restricted to prevent unnecessary disturbance, and visitors are asked not to feed the birds. 

“Dog owners should keep their pets away from dead or sick birds and be mindful that while dogs are not at direct risk, walking through contaminated areas can spread the virus to other locations, particularly where domestic birds may be present.” 

The spokesperson added: “At Kinnaird, signs have been installed to warn of Avian flu in the area. Contractors working near the ponds have been made aware of the situation and are following hygiene measures to minimise any potential spread. 

“NHS Scotland and Public Health Scotland are being kept informed of the situation. 

“If you come across dead or visibly sick birds in public areas, please do not touch them and report sightings to Defra’s helpline on 03459 33 55 77.”