Avian flu threat monitored
The threat of avian influenza or bird flu is being monitored for a possible resurgence in the winter months - in both coastal birds and farmed poultry. NatureScot is taking the issue so seriously that it is in touch with eco authorities from Nordic countries Iceland and Norway to track migrating birds moving south to Scotland, including to coastal sites in Argyll.
Alastair MacGugan, NatureScot’s wildlife management manager, said: ‘As we head into the winter months, we are still very concerned about the potential impact of avian flu on our wild bird populations and we remain vigilant to ensure we can respond to the evolving situation.
‘We’re monitoring wintering goose populations very closely for avian flu and are working with colleagues in Iceland and Norway to identify cases in migrating populations.
‘Here in Scotland, we’ve set up a network of site managers and volunteers to provide real-time reporting on what is happening out in the field, helping us take swift and targeted decisions.’
A spokesperson for the UK’s Department for the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (Defra) said: ‘You should call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77) if you find one or more dead bird of prey or owl; three or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks); or five or more dead birds of any species.’
Are you wild about marine life and keeping our coastlines clean?
The Coastal Biodiversity Surveyor course being offered by Seawilding is ‘littorally’ the one to go for.
Run by the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC), the course date is still to be finalised but the Seawilders, based in Craignish, are gauging interest in would-be surveyors for a one-day course in the village, with a maximum of 12 people able to attend once a date is confirmed.
The Coastal Biodiversity Surveyor course is open to anyone 10 and older, while under 16s must be accompanied by adult.
The marine habitat restoration group, which works extensively around Argyll’s coastline, is keen to bring through more amateur experts to carry out coastal conservation tasks in the region, such as monitoring the numbers of different species living on the coast.
A spokesperson for Seawilding said: ‘This course is perfect for anyone wanting to get involved as a volunteer biodiversity surveyor, or seeking to learn more about the monitoring required for community marine restoration projects.
‘No specific experience is required.
‘The practical part of the course will take place on the shore - going no deeper than welly boot depth - but all participants should be physically fit to walk around a rocky and muddy shore.’
For more course details visit www.seawilding.org/training.