Fota Wildlife Park Closes as Avian Influenza is Detected
The wildlife park in Cork, Ireland, is closed to the public while authorities respond to a confirmed outbreak of avian influenza. The positive cases are linked to three dead geese and a fourth sick goose within a flock of 20 at the park, as confirmed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
What the Tests Found
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon announced on Tuesday evening that samples from the birds tested positive for avian influenza, specifically the H5N1 strain, at the Department’s veterinary laboratory in Backweston, Co. Kildare. He noted that further laboratory testing would determine the pathogenicity of the virus before decisions on management are finalized.
“Following a report from a veterinary practitioner to the Department, samples from a number of captive birds which had died at Fota were tested for avian influenza virus in the Department’s veterinary laboratory,” the minister said. “The preliminary test results are positive for H5N1 avian influenza virus. Further laboratory testing will be carried out tomorrow to determine pathogenicity.”
Current Response and Investigations
A veterinary epidemiological investigation is underway to inform the management response. On-site investigations at Fota will guide containment measures, potential culling considerations if required, and steps to prevent any further spread within the park and to nearby wild birds.
The Health Service Executive – Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSE-HPSC) stated that the risk to public health from this particular strain in the general public is considered low. However, there is a low-to-medium risk for people who work in close proximity with the birds or may encounter contaminated environments.
Context Within a Busy Avian Flu Year
The H5N1 outbreak at Fota is one of 41 avian influenza cases detected in wild birds in Ireland this year. The Department has been monitoring multiple clusters as wild bird populations migrate and interact with captive flocks and parks across the country. The most recent outbreak before Fota occurred at The Lough in Cork a few weeks prior, underscoring the ongoing vigilance required by animal facilities and bird handlers.
What Visitors and Locals Should Know
At this stage, the park is closed until further notice to ensure safety for both wildlife and visitors. The Department and park officials will issue updates as investigations progress and decisions about reopening are made. People who work closely with birds or who manage animal care facilities should follow standard biosecurity practices, including restrictions on moving equipment between facilities and reporting unusual bird illnesses immediately.
Public health authorities emphasize that there is no immediate danger to the general public. Individuals who are concerned about exposure should consult local health guidance and the HSE’s official channels for updates on risk levels and protective measures.
Looking Ahead
As results from additional laboratory analyses become available, authorities will refine risk assessments and management strategies. The ongoing epidemiological investigation will determine the scope of containment actions, including any necessary culling decisions or enhanced surveillance within and around Fota Wildlife Park. The goal remains to protect both animal populations and public health while minimizing disruption to conservation efforts and visitor experiences as soon as it is safe to reopen.
