Bird of prey positive for bird flu on Isle of Man

A dead buzzard has been confirmed to have had avian flu

A case of bird flu has been confirmed on the Isle of Man after a bird of prey tested positive.

The buzzard found dead in a garden in the Bride area in the north of the Isle of Man had tested positive for avian influenza, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (Defa) said.

The department said as the highly pathogenic virus was not affecting kept or farmed birds on the island, no restriction zones or other measures have been introduced.

However, members of the public have been urged not to touch sick or dead birds.

Avian influenza has recently been confirmed in a number of commercial poultry units and other kept birds in England and Wales, where restrictions are in place.

Following those outbreaks, the island's chief vet urged people to keep a safe distance away from wild birds on land or at sea and not to touch those which are sick or dead.

Bird keepers were advised to practice good biosecurity and hygiene and "remain vigilant".

People have also been urged to report groups of dead birds found together to the animal health division.

The last cases of the virus on the island were confirmed in sea birds in Peel Beach and Port Erin Beach in July 2023, and in a kestrel at the Point of Ayre the following month.

Defa Minister Clare Barber said While the confirmation of the case was "concerning", the risk to human health remained "very low" and well-cooked local eggs and poultry were safe to eat.

"The department continues to monitor the situation closely and urges everyone to follow the guidance," she added.