For more information see our news post from 2022 here https://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/news/bird-flu-and-its-impact-osprey-translocation-plans

This year, thankfully, early indications suggest seabirds appear to be less impacted, and we have seen signs of immunity emerging in species such as gannets. Great skuas were badly hit in 2022, but thankfully, at least as of June, seem to be faring better in 2023, though the breeding population is depleted. However, we are seeing high mortality in black-headed gulls across the continent at present. There is no sign that HPAI is going away. 

The ongoing situation has meant that we are postponing our osprey translocation plans to the Blyth estuary for another year. In 2022, raptors accounted for 20% of confirmed cases in the UK, including a single osprey in central Scotland (DEFRA, 2023). Ospreys are at lower risk of exposure compared to other raptors as they feed on live fish rather than live birds or carcasses. However, they are exposed to infection from contaminated waterbodies. With HPAI currently affecting black-headed gulls in the Rutland Water area where the young ospreys are located, the risk of transmission remains. Together with Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, and following advice from Natural England, we will review the situation in 2024 and keep you informed.