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.