Summary of the closure
Fota Wildlife Park in East Cork has temporarily closed to the public for two days due to suspected avian influenza, or bird flu. The park announced that public access would be suspended on Tuesday, October 14, and Wednesday, October 15, with plans to reopen on Thursday, pending any new guidance from authorities.
Context and background
The move comes weeks after an outbreak was confirmed in wild birds at The Lough in Cork city. While the park did not confirm the source of the suspected cases, authorities were alerted after reports were submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The park said the suspension was a precautionary measure while investigations continue.
What this means for visitors
During the two-day closure, visitors are advised not to visit Fota Wildlife Park. The park urged the public to avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds, a precautionary step that aligns with guidance issued during avian influenza incidents. The decision to close reflects a broader approach by wildlife and agricultural authorities to limit potential transmission and ensure safety for both animals and people.
About avian influenza and risks
Avian Influenza HPAI (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, is highly contagious among birds and can affect the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems of many wild bird and poultry species. While bird flu can pose risks to humans in certain circumstances, such infections are rare, and public health authorities emphasize that the immediate risk to people remains low when proper precautions are followed. The primary concern in this context is protecting bird populations and minimizing opportunities for cross-species transmission.
Official guidance and next steps
The park’s notice indicates that government reporting has occurred and that reopening will depend on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and other relevant authorities. Once a determination is made that it is safe to resume normal operations, Fota Wildlife Park plans to reopen for visitors on Thursday, subject to any additional advisories.
Community impact and wildlife health
The closure affects visitors and the local tourism cycle, particularly for families and wildlife enthusiasts who regularly plan trips to the East Cork attraction. Wildlife health teams will continue monitoring conditions and may implement further measures if new information becomes available. The incident underscores the ongoing importance of surveillance for avian diseases in both wild bird populations and managed wildlife settings.
How to stay informed
For updates, visitors should check Fota Wildlife Park’s official channels and local government advisories. The situation remains fluid as investigations proceed and health authorities assess any potential risks.
In summary, Fota Wildlife Park’s two-day closure is a precautionary response to suspected avian influenza, following earlier concerns about the virus in nearby wild bird populations. The park’s priority is the safety of its animals, staff, and visitors while authorities evaluate the situation.
