Overview: Bird flu edges closer to Ireland’s seal colonies
While Ireland has not recorded mammal infections of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, authorities warn that the virus has been detected in seabirds along parts of the Irish coast. The proximity of these infections to seal habitats has sparked concern among conservation groups and coastal communities about potential spillover risks to Ireland’s sea mammals.
What is happening in Ireland and the UK?
The HPAI H5N1 strain has been identified in seabirds on or near Irish shorelines, a worrying signal given the close quarters between wild birds and seals in many coastal regions. Across the water in the United Kingdom, authorities have reported rising seal deaths linked to the same virus strain, underscoring a broader North Atlantic pattern that could affect Ireland if transmission routes widen. While there is no evidence of mammal-to-mammal transmission in Ireland yet, the presence of the virus in seabird populations raises questions about the potential risks to seals, which often share roosting sites and haul-out areas with gulls and other birds.
What this means for Ireland’s seals
Seals are not the primary hosts for H5N1 and have historically shown resilience to avian influenza. However, intense outbreaks among seabirds can increase exposure opportunities for seals through shared airspace, water, and debris. Veterinarians and wildlife handlers emphasize that seals may come into contact with contaminated material or infected birds, potentially leading to illness. Monitoring programs in Ireland are intensifying to detect any signs of infection in seal populations early and to understand how the virus moves through coastal ecosystems.
Signs to watch
For members of the public near seal habitats, watch for unusual seal behavior, unexpected mortality in seals and seabirds, or sudden changes in feeding patterns. Any healthy-looking animals that you suspect may be sick should be left alone and reported to local wildlife authorities or rescue organizations. Early reporting helps responders intervene promptly and reduces stressful encounters for the animals.
What rescue groups are doing
Organizations like Seal Rescue Ireland and partner conservation groups are stepping up surveillance, sample collection, and public awareness campaigns. Trained responders are collecting samples from any distressed or deceased wildlife, following strict biosecurity protocols to prevent cross-contamination and protect both animals and people. Public involvement is crucial: reporting sightings of unusual wildlife behavior or dead birds near seal habitats can help authorities map the spread of the virus and target interventions more effectively.
What residents and visitors can do
People living along the coast or visiting seal colonies should adhere to local guidelines, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and avoid handling seals or seabirds. Practicing good biosecurity—washing hands after visiting coastal sites and keeping dogs under control away from haul-out areas—helps limit potential transmission routes. Support for accredited wildlife organizations through donations or volunteering also contributes to ongoing monitoring and care for affected animals.
Looking ahead
Scientists continue to study how avian influenza behaves in mixed coastal ecosystems, with Ireland’s seal populations playing a key role in understanding transmission dynamics. While the current situation does not indicate mammal infections in Ireland, the regional pattern seen in the UK serves as a precautionary reminder: vigilance, rapid reporting, and coordinated responses are essential to protect both wildlife and coastal economies reliant on healthy marine ecosystems.
Bottom line
The arrival of HPAI H5N1 in seabirds near Ireland’s coasts has raised concerns about seals, but authorities stress that no mammal infections have been confirmed in Ireland to date. Ongoing monitoring, responsible public behavior, and strong support for wildlife rescue efforts remain critical as scientists track the virus’s movements and work to safeguard Ireland’s marine wildlife.
