What To Do If You Find Dead Birds on Orkney’s Beaches

We have recently received an increased number of reports of dead birds washing up on shorelines across Orkney. In many cases, this is the result of seasonal storms weakening seabirds. 

However, some birds may also be affected by Avian Influenza or other diseases that can pose a risk to people or other animals. Members of the public are advised not to touch, handle, or move any dead birds. 

You should report findings if you come across: 
• One dead bird of prey, swan, goose, duck or gull or 
• Five or more dead wild birds of any other species 

Reports can be made via the UK Government’s report dead wild birds page., on GOV.UK or by calling 03459 33 55 77. 

If you find a sick or injured wild bird, please contact the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) on 03000 999 999. 

Further advice on Avian Influenza is available from the Scottish Government: 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/ 

Further to this, if you come across dead birds that appear to be contaminated with oil, please do not touch or move them. 

 
If the birds are alive, do not attempt to clean them yourself - this requires specialist equipment and expertise. Please report them to the SSPCA on 03000 999 999. 

Dog walkers are asked to keep pets on leads near beaches and coastal paths where dead or sick birds may be present. This helps prevent dogs from picking up or coming into contact with potentially infected carcasses.