Experts prepare for bird flu

Sussex is in the front line as its coast is the first landfall for some migrating species of ducks and geese.

But RSPB spokesman Adrian South said most flew in from Northern Europe and Russia where there have been no recorded outbreaks of avian flu.

He said: 'This is a big, big issue.

'We are first base here and we are keeping close tabs on everything and evaluating information.'

Some species like widgeon started their journey to Britain in August arriving from Europe via the North Sea and Baltic.

Teal and Brent geese from Russia followed.

Mr South said: 'Because they do not need to stay in one place to breed like summer migrants they are likely to move around the country.

'We still believe the risk is very low but this is a virulent disease and we are far from complacent.'

The RSPB is asking wardens to conduct their twice-weekly checks and report any unexpected death events, such as large numbers of dying birds in any one location.

'We also ask volunteers to contact DEFRA with similar reports,' added Mr South.

In the meantime local bird groups are ruling out shows which involve travelling.

The Lewes District Cage Bird Society has cancelled its forthcoming show scheduled for November 12 at Chailey School.

Peter Bryant from the Royal Pigeon Racing Association said the current scare coincided with the sport's 'close season' so birds were not currently airborne.

He added: 'This is our show season and sale season.

'Owners can sell birds from one location but shows and general public sales are now allowed.'

The EU has announced a month-long ban on live bird imports after a quarantined parrot died from the H5N1 virus in Essex last week.