Bird flu has been detected in 17 wild birds in Dorset, the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed, with more expected over the coming days.

It has been reported that mute swans, one Canada Goose and one Potchard Duck at Abbotsbury Swannery have been affected.

This is the first case of HPAI in the UK this winter and, although Defra is not expected to raise the risk level for poultry, poultry keepers have been urged to raise vigilance and enhance biosecurity now that the virus is circulating in England.

UPDATE: The Queens flock of Swan's have now been found to have bird flu, 20 have died so far from the lates outbreak that started in Dorset.

BIRD flu has been detected in 17 wild birds in Dorset, the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed, with more expected over the coming days.

It has been reported that mute swans, one Canada Goose and one Potchard Duck at Abbotsbury Swannery have been affected.

This is the first case of HPAI in the UK this winter and, although Defra is not expected to raise the risk level for poultry, poultry keepers have been urged to raise vigilance and enhance biosecurity now that the virus is circulating in England.