Local Councillor Highlights Avian Influenza Advice after 120 Dead Birds Removed from Cruden Bay Beach

Peterhead South and Cruden SNP councillor Stephen Smith is urging local residents and visitors to follow safety advice issued by Aberdeenshire Council following the removal of 120 dead birds from Cruden Bay beach by council staff.

Commenting, Cllr Stephen Smith said:

“I’m grateful to council staff for responding to the reports from myself and other residents and getting the beach cleaned up.

“It’s very sad that so many birds have been affected but the advice is that our beaches are still safe to enjoy this summer and the threat of transmission to humans is very low.

“That said, there are a number of simple measures people should follow to maintain strict hygiene standards, including not picking up or touching dead or dying birds.”

Aberdeenshire Council is urging people to continue reporting incidents of dead birds – both to Defra on 03459 335577 and, if you come across groupings of 10 or more dead birds, the council’s own dedicated phone line on 01467 537444.

But remember to follow this safety advice at all times:

• Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds 
• Keep pets/dogs away from any dead or sick birds 
• Don't feed wild waterfowl 
• Don't touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with droppings

If you find a live but sick bird call the SSPCA on 03000 999999 for advice – however please note that due to the current situation you should not bring any wild birds to their animal rescue and rehoming centres.

If you keep poultry or other birds, it is vital that you wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to your birds.

For more details on avian influenza, visit www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/.