Bird flu has been detected in grey seals at Blakeney Point in Norfolk for the second time in recent months, according to new data from the UK government. The virus, known scientifically as avian influenza or H5N1, was confirmed in 15 of 40 tested seal carcasses, raising growing concerns over its impact on wildlife.
Second Bird Flu Outbreak Confirmed in Norfolk Seal Colony
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), tested dead seals after an initial outbreak in February. According to the latest update, 37.5% of the sampled carcasses tested positive for bird flu at the well-known Blakeney Point seal colony.
Unclear if Bird Flu Was the Sole Cause of Death
Although bird flu was present in the animals, scientists say they cannot confirm whether the virus was the sole cause of death. “It is possible that other contributing factors were involved,” the official statement said. The findings have been reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
The virus has been spreading across the UK, affecting various species beyond birds, including seals and even sheep. In recent weeks, the world’s first case of bird flu in sheep was identified in Yorkshire.
Wider Impacts of Bird Flu Across the UK
Bird flu outbreaks have had a significant impact on farmed and wild animals alike. Between November and February, 1.78 million farmed and captive birds were culled across the UK to control the spread of the virus. Government officials also report a small number of human infections in the UK since 2021, although such cases remain rare.
Defra continues to monitor the situation and advises the public not to approach sick or dead wild animals. Further investigations are ongoing to assess the risk and understand how the virus is spreading among non-avian species.
