Mansfield wildlife charity in lockdown due to bird-flu concerns
Mansfield Wildlife Rescue is in lockdown and will be closing to the public following a confirmed outbreak of bird-flu in a nearby town.
Volunteers at Mansfield Wildlife Rescue confirmed the centre, including the cafe, will be closed to the public from Saturday (November 14).
The facility will reopen for the Christmas event on December 12 and then remain closed until March 27 next year when an Easter event will be held and the cafe will re-open.
Cheryl Martins who runs Mansfield Wildlife Rescue said: “We thank everyone for their support this year. This has not been an easy decision as we lose a major funding stream while our cafe is closed, we have had to make this decision due to the threat of Avian Influenza and to keep all the birds safe we currently have onsite.
“Donations and casualties can still be dropped of but please call us first on 01623 810625. Volunteers are still allowed onsite although there will be strict biosecurity measures in place.
“Please can we also ask that anyone using the play area or walking their dogs through our woodland remain out of our pond and restricted areas.”
The move comes after a confirmed outbreak of Avian Influenza near Brigg in North Lincolnshire, with a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone in place there.
Warsop Wildlife Rescue has also introduced strict biosecurity measures including not attending to or taking in birds showing potential signs of Avian Influenza.
If you come across a sick or injured wild bird and suspect Avian Influenza avoid touching the bird and report your concerns to Defra.