Summary of the Fota outbreak
Samples taken from captive birds that died at Fota Wildlife Park in Cork have tested positive for avian influenza, the Department of Agriculture confirmed. Preliminary results indicate the H5N1 strain, with further testing planned to determine the virus’s pathogenicity and the appropriate response. This marks a significant development for Ireland’s avian health monitoring, and authorities are moving swiftly to understand the scope and to prevent spread.
What happened and where the tests were conducted
The positive findings come after a park veterinarian reported the deaths of several birds to the Department of Agriculture. Samples from those birds were analyzed at the department’s veterinary laboratory in Backweston, County Kildare. While the initial tests confirm the presence of the H5N1 avian influenza virus, additional diagnostics are being carried out the following day to assess how dangerous the virus is for birds and, by extension, any potential risk to other animals or people who might come into contact with infected birds.
Details of the affected birds
It is understood that the positive cases involve three dead geese and a fourth sick goose that were part of a flock of 20 at the park. A veterinary epidemiological investigation is currently underway on site at Fota to determine the outbreak’s origin, how the birds became infected, and whether the virus has spread beyond the initial flock. The results of this on-site investigation will inform the ongoing management response.
Potential containment measures
Based on the coming epidemiological findings, authorities will carry out a risk assessment that could trigger containment zones around Fota. Possible measures include a protection zone of 3km or an exclusion zone of 10km, depending on the level of risk and the likelihood of transmission to other birds in the area. Fota Wildlife Park remains closed to the public until Thursday while investigations and containment planning proceed.
Public health context and guidance
Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon underscored that the detection highlights the ongoing risk posed by avian influenza and urged both commercial poultry keepers and backyard flock owners to stay vigilant and implement precautions to prevent contact with wild birds or contamination from wild birds. The Health Service Executive (HSE) and Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) say the current H5N1 strain poses a low risk to the general public, with a low-to-moderate risk for occupationally exposed individuals. No outbreaks have been reported in commercial poultry in Ireland this year, though 41 wild birds have tested positive so far in 2025.
Related local context
Last month, Cork City Council reported cases of bird flu at The Lough Bird Sanctuary, where low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses were detected in mallards examined at the Department’s Regional Veterinary Laboratory in Cork. Authorities say the current situation at Fota is being handled with caution but remains separate from any confirmed commercial poultry outbreaks.
What the public should do
Members of the public are advised not to handle sick or dead wild birds and to report any sightings to their regional veterinary office. Outside business hours, the National Disease Emergency Hotline (01 492 8026) or the Department of Agriculture’s Avian Check app can be used for reporting. While the immediate risk to people is considered low, adherence to guidance helps minimize any potential transmission and supports swift containment should the situation evolve.
Looking ahead
The coming days will bring further test results and a refined risk assessment. Authorities are coordinating with animal health and wildlife officials to monitor the situation, communicate updates, and safeguard both animal and public health as they determine the best course of action for Fota Wildlife Park and its surroundings.
