'Don't feed the birds': Warning to families as dead swans prompt avian flu investigation at nature reserve

In recent days, the trust has received a number of reports relating to sightings of up to half a dozen dead or dying swans.

Whilst sightings are still being followed up, there has so far been no official confirmation of the virus at the reserve – but the charity is taking a cautious approach.

Speaking on behalf of the trust, head of communications Erin McDaid said: “While we’ve received no official confirmation of the virus at the reserve, given the severity of the avian flu outbreak across the country and reports of cases nearby, we are working on the assumption we have the virus on site.”