Mansfield wildlife charities issue bird-flu warning

Mansfield Wildlife Rescue and Warsop Wildlife Rescue are asking visitors to take extra precautions on site and cannot attend to or take in birds showing potential signs of Avian Influenza.

The warning comes after a confirmed outbreak near Brigg in North Lincolnshire was been announced by Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) with a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone in place there.

Cheryl Martins who runs Mansfield Wildlife Rescue said: “While we are not inside that official zone, the site is only around 45 km away — close enough that wild‑bird movement brings real risk. We have already had calls from local people reporting birds showing worrying symptoms, so we are stepping up our precautions right now. If the virus reaches our centre, every bird in our care would have to be culled.”

To reduce the risk the pond area and middle section are now closed to all visitors at the Pleasley Vale site although the café remains open as usual, but visitors are asked not to enter any bird‑housing zones.

Staff are also putting foot‑bath and sponge stations at all entrances and everyone visiting the café is asked to use them to help stop the spread of viruses carried in on footwear.

A spokesman for Warsop Wildlife Rescue said: “To protect the animals currently in our care as well as our dedicated team, we must now implement stringent biosecurity measures.

“As much as it goes against everything we stand for, this unfortunately means that we cannot attend to or take in birds showing potential signs of Avian Influenza. We simply cannot risk bringing this devastating virus back to the vulnerable birds and other animals relying on us for their care.

“We know how upsetting and distressing it can be to come across a sick or injured bird and feel helpless and we completely understand how difficult this is for those witnessing it. Please understand that these measures aren't taken lightly. We have a responsibility to protect every animal already in our care and sometimes that means making incredibly difficult decisions.”

If you come across a sick or injured wild bird and suspect Avian Influenza avoid touching the bird and report your concerns to Defra.