A BUDGIE boffin is telling bird lovers not to flap, because their feathered friends are in no danger of catching bird flu.
The UK remains on high alert after a swan found dead in Scotland nearly three weeks ago tested positive for the H5N1 avian flu virus, which is potentially deadly to humans.
Dozens of other dead birds found on our shores tested negative for bird fl
u, but the scare has sparked fears among budgie fanciers that their birds might be at risk.
David Herring, publicity secretary for the Sunderland Budgerigar Society, said: “We think there is no danger here whatsoever to pet owners.
“Pets can only get it from infected birds in the wild or people who have handled infected birds.
He added: “Our advice is to cover open flights, which will also protect budgerigars from other diseases such as salmonella.”
David, of Chatsworth Street, Barnes, has an outdoor aviary which currently houses over 200 budgies.
Defra has set up a telephone hotline so people can report discoveries of dead birds.
The Government is urging the public not to panic over bird flu after the Defra helpline was inundated with concerned calls.
Reports should only be made if three or more birds are found dead together, or if a dead swan, goose or duck is found.
David said: “Budgerigar fanciers who are in a society will be the first to find out about these things and any changes to guidelines.”
Meanwhile, The Washington Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust is reminding Wearisders it is open for business as usual.
Chris Francis, centre manager, said: “The safety of our visitors, staff, volunteers and the wildlife and our centre are of utmost importance to us and we are constantly reviewing and checking our procedures.
“We would not be open if our centre was not safe.”
Information on the risks and precautions of bird flu can be found on www.defra.gov.uk or to report the sighting of dead birds, contact DEFRA on 08459 33 55 77.
Anyone who is a Budgerigar fancier is welcome to join the Sunderland Budgerigar Society, which meets on the last Monday of every month in the Willow Pond, Hylton Road, Millfield.
For more information on Budgerigar societies, contact David on 567 3933 or log on to www.herringbrosbudgerigars.co.uk.
