Rye Harbour Nature Reserves re-opens to visitors after being hit by bird flu
Castle Water at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is open to visitors again, following careful monitoring of suspected avian botulism, confirmed bird flu and blue-green algae.
Large areas of the reserve, a site of special scientific interest, were closed off a month ago due to the situation.
Peter Tinsley of Sussex Wildlife Trust, who run the nature reserve, said: “We based our decision on evidence. We looked for two things over a sustained period: a return to normal numbers of dead birds and other wildlife, and a return to normal water quality.
“Over the last three weeks, the number of deaths has fallen back to usual levels, with only two dead birds seen in our most recent count. Oxygen levels in the water have also returned to normal. This matters because low oxygen is one of the main triggers for the bacteria that cause botulism to produce toxins.
"We will keep monitoring the situation closely. Thank you to all our visitors for your continued support and cooperation.”
Visitors can enjoy Castle Water safely again by following this simple guidance: Do not touch or approach sick, injured or dead birds. Keep to designated footpaths and viewing areas, do not enter the water Keep dogs on a lead at all times. Do not let dogs swim, paddle or drink from any water.