Bird species taken off show at wildlife park

Facility will reopen following Island outbreak of avian influenza

Bird species at Curragh’s Wildlife Park are being taken off show or having restrictions placed around how they can be viewed.

It’s in response to the outbreak of avian influenza – or bird flu – on the Isle of Man.

The park has been closed since Sunday but will re-open on Saturday with new restrictions in place to protect wildlife and reduce the risk of any birds contracting it.

All of the birds at the park are currently healthy.

Visitors will be asked to use a disinfectant foot bath before entering and bird keepers are being asked to wear clean boots and clothing free of bird faeces.

Owl and penguin experiences – where visitors have chance to get up close to the animals – have also been postponed.

Avian influenza is considered very low, or nil, risk to humans unless they are working with and handling infected birds.