Wildlife

UK Avian Influenza: Wildlife Welfare Impact

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has caused devastating mortality in wild seabird and waterfowl populations, creating acute wildlife welfare emergencies.

Key Facts

HPAI H5N1 killed millions of wild birds across the UK and Europe from 2021 onwards
Seabirds including gannets, skuas, and terns were particularly severely affected
Infected birds experience neurological symptoms and respiratory distress before death
Wildlife rescue organisations faced overwhelming demand from sick birds while managing infection risk to themselves

Welfare Considerations

HPAI represents a wildlife welfare emergency of unprecedented scale in the UK, causing mass suffering and mortality in wild bird populations. The welfare responses available are limited - sick birds rarely survive - but reducing suffering through rapid humane euthanasia is an achievable welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Support wildlife organisations responding to avian influenza welfare emergencies
Follow APHA guidance on handling sick wild birds to protect yourself and prevent spread
Advocate for research funding on HPAI vaccines that could protect wild bird populations