East Sussex WRAS have released the following statement
Sadly in Sussex many gulls In high numbers have been turning up to various locations sadly deceased.
Areas mainly effected are Brighton & Hove but we are now receiving calls to gulls with the same symptoms in Eastbourne & Seaford.
Symptoms include: lethargy, gurgling, coughing, unable to stand and vomiting.
Some of these symptoms vary and are causing quick mortality in gulls.
Sadly these symptoms could be related to Avian Influenza.
We urge you to report deceased gulls to DEFRA who are currently investigating.
Please do not handle deceased gulls.
Due to the high risk we are currently unable to admit gulls for treatment in order to protect the birds we currently have in for care.
we are triaging on a case to case basis and advising members of the public if they are able to, to take sick gulls to their nearest veterinary practice who see wildlife free of charge to members of the public or to contact the RSPCA.
We are extremely sad that this is happening across Sussex, we are all avid gull lovers and this is devastating to their population.
We are still reuniting as many chicks as we can with their parents, but please bare in mind we are a small charity with limited volunteers who often are working around full time jobs & family commitments.
We aim to help as many of you as we can, but please when calling us be kind. We understand the frustration more than anyone with this situation but our volunteers have been on the receiving end of verbal abuse.
We thank you for your patience during this trying time!
We are still here to give advice.
DEFRA: 03459 33 55 77
RSPCA: 0300 1234 999
Many thanks for your patience.
East Sussex WRAS
