Martin Mere has a collection of waterbirds and avian influenza was found in a small number these birds. This is why we have had to close Martin Mere, which was a requirement of UK government agencies 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. The South American, North American and canoe safari areas are closed. These have clear fencing in front of them. This is a UK government requirement 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.
We have had 10 birds die on site with avian influenza detected in them. These were from the North American (wooded wetland) and South American areas of the waterfowl collection.
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 UK government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency and UK Health Security Agency advise that the risk to public health from the virus is extremely low.
