Wild Seabird Avian Influenza Welfare Response

Highly pathogenic avian influenza has caused catastrophic seabird mortality - the welfare and conservation response is evolving rapidly.

Key Facts

The 2021-2022 H5N1 HPAI outbreak caused unprecedented mortality in UK seabirds including gannets and great skuas
An estimated 200,000 or more seabirds died in UK waters in 2022
Dead and dying seabirds should not be handled by the public due to zoonotic risk
DEFRA and RSPCA produced guidance on when dying seabirds can be humanely euthanised
Seabird colonies showed severe disruption to breeding success in affected years
Vaccination of wild seabirds is being explored but faces major logistical challenges

Welfare Considerations

HPAI causes rapid and severe suffering in affected seabirds. The welfare response involves both protecting public health and minimising individual bird suffering where safe intervention is possible. Trained responders can provide humane euthanasia for severely affected birds, but mass mortality events exceed capacity for individual treatment.

What You Can Do

Do not handle sick or dead wild birds - report sightings to APHA on 03000 200 301
Support RSPB and Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust seabird population monitoring
Donate to seabird conservation organisations responding to HPAI impacts
Advocate for research funding for seabird HPAI vaccination development
Follow DEFRA guidance on when and how to report sick seabirds in your area