Fota Wildlife Park grounded by a breakout of bird flu

One of Cork’s most popular attractions, Fota had previously put a number of restrictions in place in February to prevent the spread of the virus by recommendation of the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine.

Birds make up a large portion of the park’s wildlife, with species including Chilean flamingo, great white pelican, Indian peafowl, ostrich, white-tailed sea eagle, and the Humboldt penguin amongst the population.

While many of the birds at the park are captive, they do come in contact with visiting migratory birds. Bird flu or avian influenza is a type of influenza that primarily affects wild birds and poultry, and which can also occasionally infect some mammals and humans. It is very unusual for people to catch bird flu, but it can happen.

Officials from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine visited the wildlife park this week.

The visit came after a number of birds were found dead.

A statement from the park’s ownership said: “The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has confirmed that samples taken from captive birds which died at Fota Wildlife Park have tested positive for avian influenza virus (H5N1).

“Fota Wildlife Park will remain closed until further notice from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

“Further updates will be shared in due course.”

Outbreak at The Lough

Fota’s closure follows a number of confirmed avian influenza cases at The Lough in Cork city last month.

In a new update, Cork City Council has confirmed that further testing is to be carried out following the discovery of a dead mallard at the sanctuary on 6 October.

If the result comes back positive for avian flu, restrictions will remain in place at The Lough until further notice.

Visitors to the popular southside amenity are warned not to touch sick or dead wild birds, and not to handle bird feathers found in the area. The public must also refrain from bringing sick birds home. Visitors are also strongly urged to keep pets away from sick and dead wild birds. Dogs should be kept on a leash where sick or dead wild birds are present.