Wild seabirds along Ireland’s west coast are being found dead in recent weeks, raising concerns over the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) — commonly known as bird flu.

Counties Kerry, Clare, and Galway have seen clusters of dead gulls and guillemots washing up on beaches, confirmed to be affected by HPAI following testing by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine. So far in 2025, 25 wild birds across Ireland have tested positive for this highly contagious virus.

Bird flu affects the respiratory and digestive systems of birds and can spread rapidly among wild populations, especially seabirds during breeding season. While human infections are rare, authorities advise caution around dead or sick birds.

The Department of Agriculture and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), which has been closely monitoring seabird populations nationwide, urge the public to:

Avoid touching or handling sick or dead wild birds.
Keep pets, especially dogs, away from affected areas and birds.
Report any sightings of sick or dead wild birds using the Avian Check app.

The virus can survive for weeks in the environment, with infected bird droppings posing an ongoing risk. Local authorities may place warnings or remove bird carcasses in public areas, including popular beaches.

For ongoing updates and detailed advice, visit the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine and Gov.ie websites.

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