Perky the swan died in Sefton Park. Bird flu is suspected. Merseyside is now in a prevention zone.
Perky was only six months old. Locals knew him well in the park. The Friends of Sefton Park shared the sad news. Perky got bird flu and worsened. He was weak and isolated himself.
He was almost ready to leave and start his own family. The group thanked a swan expert. WWR Wings helped Perky a lot. They took him to the vet for care. He did not survive, sadly.
Other bird flu cases occurred nearby. Greenbank Park had reports. Oglet Shaw also reported suspected cases. Officials have not confirmed these reports yet.
H5N1 avian flu was found in Bromborough. The virus spreads across the country. The UK confirmed a human case in January. It happened in the West Midlands area.
Liverpool says bird owners must keep birds housed. They must follow strict safety rules. This is because of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone. It covers Merseyside now.
The council is sad about Perky’s death. They will investigate if DEFRA was told. People should follow government advice. This helps stop the flu from spreading.
Parks will watch birds closely. People can visit them as normal. Do not touch any dead birds seen. Report dead birds at www.gov.uk for review.