Dead birds found after outbreak of avian flu in the Borders

A 10 kilometre surveillance zone has been put in place around Millennium Farm – just off the A703 north of Eddleston, in addition to a three kilometre disease control protection zone.

New restrictions are now in place over the movement of mammals, birds, eggs, and poultry meat in a bid to control the spread of the virus.

This includes a ban on the release of game birds within the zone; where all those with poultry are being asked to keep records of their flock, and visitors to their premises.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: “Disease control zones and restrictions apply in the area.

“If you keep poultry (chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese etc) or captive birds (pigeons, birds of prey etc) in either of the blue 3km or black 10km control zones shown on the APHA (Animal and Plant Agency) website, please update your details or register on the Scottish Kept Bird Register immediately. This is a legal requirement.

“If you have any concerns about the health of your birds and think they could have bird flu, please contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on 03000 600 704.”

The latest outbreak follows three earlier outbreaks in the area in the week before Christmas.

A first was reported across the boundary between the Borders and Midlothian, with another near Blairgowrie.

According to Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer, the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of the virus was also discovered at Kingside Farm, near Leadburn, on Christmas Eve; Halls Farm, near Penicuik – close to the boundary between Midlothian and the Scottish Borders – on December 22; and another at Whim Poultry Farm, near West Linton, on December 18.

Bird keepers have been advised to remain vigilant and follow bio-security measures until further notice.

They have been urged to check their animals for any sign of infection and keep records of any which fall ill and die.