Dog owners in Epping Forest warned following outbreak of potentially fatal bird disease
Teams are responding to an outbreak affecting some water birds at Connaught Water
Wildlife teams have asked dog owners to stop their pets from entering a popular lake following an outbreak of potentially fatal bird disease – most widely seen when water quality is poor. Epping Forest teams are currently responding to an outbreak of avian botulism affecting some of the water birds at Connaught Water.
Avian botulism is a naturally occurring wetland disease that can affect ducks, geese and other water birds. The bacteria responsible are associated with particular environmental conditions, and outbreaks can have serious consequences for local wildlife.
Staff are carrying out regular monitoring and removing affected birds to help limit its spread and protect local wildlife – but has asked people to keep a “respectful distance” from the water birds and “not let dogs enter the pond or approach wildlife”.
A statement from Epping Forest City of London said: “Our teams are currently responding to an outbreak of avian botulism affecting some of the water birds at Connaught Water.
“Avian botulism is a naturally occurring wetland disease that can affect ducks, geese and other water birds. The bacteria responsible are associated with particular environmental conditions, and outbreaks can have serious consequences for local wildlife.
“Understanding and monitoring these events helps our teams respond quickly, and builds a better picture of the complex ecological processes affecting wetland habitats. Our staff are carrying out regular monitoring and removing affected birds to help limit its spread and protect local wildlife – but we need your help.”
According to the Animal and Plant Health Agency outbreaks of avian botulism – a paralytic and often fatal disease caused by ingestion of toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum – occur relatively frequently especially during periods when water quality falls.
However, large numbers of birds may be affected which can result in hundreds of deaths. A statement adds botulism in dogs and cats is relatively rare however both species are potentially susceptible.
It adds: “In general terms therefore, stagnant waterbodies that contain green-brown coloured murky water may contain bacterial, algal and biochemical toxins and pets should be prevented from having any access. If whilst walking your dog you come across dead or sick birds or murky stagnant waters it is best to put your dog on the lead to prevent your dog from ingesting carcases, drinking from or swimming in the water. Should you have any concerns about the health of your pets please contact your veterinary surgeon.”