Bird flu has been detected in wild animals in Shropshire it has been confirmed.
Shropshire Council is urging residents and businesses who keep birds to remain alert for any signs of disease and report any cases of suspected disease immediately.
It follows positive results of avian influenza (bird flu) in the Shropshire wild bird population during a routine survey.
According to the council, three cases of H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus were found in waterfowl in Ellesmere in November 2025, three near Wem and three in Quatford in December 2025 and another in recently in Tasley near Bridgnorth.
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There have been no cases of Avian Influenza in Shropshire confirmed in domestic birds this season, and all wild cases have been in waterfowl.
Shropshire Council has encouraged the public “to report sightings of certain wild bird deaths so that they may be collected for analysis in the APHA avian disease investigation laboratories”.
Bernie Bentick, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health, expressed his concern over the situation.
He said: “This outbreak of Avian Influenza H5N1 is concerning. It is crucial that all residents and businesses involved in poultry farming adhere strictly to biosecurity measures to prevent further spread. We must act with utmost caution to protect our local poultry industry and public health.
“We also need to ensure good biosecurity in the area to prevent onwards spread, so we ask the public to be vigilant if walking in restricted areas.”
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Bird Keepers have been reminded that “there is currently a requirement to ensure flocks over 50 birds are kept housed and for you to register all flocks of birds”.
An online reporting tool is available to use 24/7 and accessible on mobile phones, tablets and laptops.
If they fit the criteria of the survey, some of these may be collected for testing though not all dead birds will be required or collected.
The tool does not replace the Defra helpline, which will remain in place (03459 33 55 77).
If you suspect bird flu in poultry or other captive birds, you must report it immediately by calling 03000 200 301 if you’re in England, or 03003 038 268 if you’re in Wales.
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