Liverpool City Council has suspended all activities on both lakes at Walton Hall Park after an increase in bird deaths, with a suspected outbreak of avian botulism. The council issued an “important update” on Tuesday, August 11, advising visitors not to touch or move dead or distressed birds.
Activities suspended on both lakes
In a Facebook post, the council confirmed that “all activities on both lakes, including angling, have been suspended until further notice.” The post states that the recent increase in bird deaths, primarily affecting ducks and geese, points to a suspected outbreak of avian botulism.
The full post reads: “Important Update: Walton Hall Park Lakes. Following a recent increase in bird deaths in and around Walton Hall Park Lakes, primarily affecting ducks and geese, there is a suspected outbreak of avian botulism. As a precaution, all activities on both lakes, including angling, have been suspended until further notice.”
Public advised to avoid contact
Visitors are urged: “If you see a dead or distressed bird, please do not touch or move it. Instead, report it using the contact details below.” The council notes that while the risk to people is considered very low, dog walkers are advised to keep their pets away from the water and avoid contact with any sick, distressed or dead birds.
The council is working with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), which is carrying out tests to confirm the cause of death. Further updates will be shared as soon as information becomes available. Avian botulism is a paralytic and often fatal disease that can affect waterbirds.
How to report dead or distressed birds
Dead birds should be reported to Liverpool City Council at 0151 233 3000. Birds in distress can be reported to the RSPCA at 0300 123 8960 or WWR Wings Wildlife & Bird Rescue at 07380 980811. More information is available on the Liverpool City Council website.
