Wildlife

Wild Gannet Colony Avian Influenza Welfare

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in gannet colonies have caused unprecedented welfare impacts since 2021.

Key Facts

The 2022 HPAI H5N1 outbreak killed an estimated 25% of the global northern gannet population
Bass Rock Scotland lost over 1,600 gannets to the outbreak in 2022
Clinical signs include neurological symptoms, inability to fly, and rapid death
There is no treatment for HPAI in wild birds; welfare response focuses on reducing suffering
Monitoring of subsequent seasons shows partial recovery but ongoing vulnerability

Welfare Considerations

Mass HPAI mortality in gannet colonies represents acute welfare harm at population scale. Individual birds dying from HPAI experience severe neurological distress. Welfare response focuses on monitoring, biosecurity around colonies, and minimising disturbance during vulnerable periods.

What You Can Do

Report dead or sick seabirds to APHA using the dedicated reporting system
Avoid handling dead birds without protective equipment
Support seabird monitoring organisations tracking HPAI impacts
Advocate for preparedness planning for future HPAI outbreaks in seabird colonies