health
February 2, 2026
Race to contain suspected bird flu outbreak among Thames Valley swans
Volunteer workers say increasing case numbers and dozens of dead birds raise fears spread is wider than recorded
TL;DR
- Volunteer workers and the public are concerned about a suspected bird flu outbreak affecting swans in the Thames Valley.
- The Animal and Plant Health Agency (Apha) has recorded 324 cases of bird flu in swans since October, with 39 in the first four weeks of 2026.
- The charity Swan Support reported finding 46 dead swans in Windsor and Maidenhead and 26 in Newbury since January 17.
- Observed symptoms in dying swans include spinning in circles, bleeding from the eyes, and lethargy.
- While some bodies have been sent for testing, confirmation of bird flu as the cause of death is pending.
- The H5N1 strain of bird flu has been prevalent since 2021 and is highly infectious.
- The king's swan marker estimates the actual number of deaths could be double the reported figures.
- Public reporting of suspected cases and volunteer efforts to remove dead birds are crucial for containment.
- Apha confirmed that a number of swans in the Berkshire area have tested positive for avian influenza.
- The public is advised not to touch dead or sick birds and to wash hands thoroughly if contact occurs.
- The public is encouraged to report findings of dead wild birds online or via Defra's helpline.
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