Bird flu has been found in two dead wild birds near Machynlleth, a Government agency has confirmed.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency found avian influenza in two birds at RSPB Ynys-hir, Eglyws-fach, near Machynlleth. The cases were in wild birds, and no captive birds are affected.

While cases in wild birds do not lead to exclusion zones being set up, staff from Ceredigion Council, in whose jurisdiction the reserve lies, are contacting nearby farms to provide advice.

RSPB Ynys-hir reserve was closed on Thursday in response to the cases, and is looking into measures to protect the public. Visitors are encouraged to stay away from the area to prevent possible further spread of the infection until more information is given, and updates about opening are to be provided by the site's Facebook page.

Councillor Gareth Lloyd, Ceredigion County Council's cabinet member for finance and public protection services, said: “Although the requirement for mandatory housing of captive birds has not yet been declared, it is advisable that keepers of birds within large poultry farms and those with captive birds in the vicinity of the nature reserve to consider housing their birds within enclosed accommodation.”

Mandatory measures as part of the All Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone include:

  • Ensure the areas where birds are kept are unattractive to wild birds, for example, by netting ponds and by removing wild bird food sources
  • Feed and water your birds in enclosed areas to discourage wild birds
  • Minimise movement of people in and out of bird enclosures
  • Clean and disinfect footwear and keep areas where birds live clean and tidy
  • Reduce any existing contamination by cleansing and disinfecting concrete areas and fencing off wet or boggy areas
  • Keep domestic ducks and geese separate from other poultry

The most common symptoms for avian flu are as follows:

  • swollen heads
  • a blue colouration of the comb and wattles
  • ocular and nasal discharge
  • dullness
  • lack of appetite
  • respiratory distress
  • diarrhoea
  • significant drop in egg production

If you notice any of these symptoms in any live bird, please contact the local The Animal and Plant Health Agency on 0300 1000 313.