Avian Influenza

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is reopening to visitors on Monday 23 January after a temporary closure due to a confirmed case of avian influenza. Find out more about the reopening.

The centre closed in October following government requirements and we have been working with the relevant government agencies on measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza. Protecting the birds in our care and those returning for winter refuge on our reserve is our utmost priority.

Whilst we are very pleased to be able to open the centre again to visitors, a section of our site must remain closed temporarily due to government requirements. Please rest assured that our expert team are continuing to take very good care of all of our animals in is section.

Frequently asked questions

: Castle Espie has a collection of waterbirds and avian influenza was found in a small number these birds. Closing was a requirement of Northern Irelands Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to help us protect the birds here and prevent the spread of avian influenza.
: We have had to restrict access to certain areas of the site. This is a requirement from DAERA to help us protect the birds here and prevent the spread of avian influenza. Please rest assured that our expert team are continuing to take very good care of all of our animals.
: Staff still need to look after our birds in the closed areas where avian influenza was found and this PPE equipment if for them to work safely with the birds and to stop the spread the disease. Visitors have no access to these areas. Government agencies state that the risk to humans is extremely low.
: We’re not sure yet, but we’ll reopen all of our pathways as soon as we are able to.
: No, unfortunately you can’t feed the birds at present as this may increase the risk of spreading the avian influenza.
: Please find a member of our team who will be able to help the bird. Please do not try to pick up the bird yourself.
: The Northern Ireland government’s Public Health Agency advise that the risk to public health from the virus is extremely low.