What bird species were found to be carrying bird flu at the RSPB's Ham Wall nature reserve?

Canada Geese and Mute Swans were found to be carrying the disease at the reserve.

How many bird flu cases were identified at the Ham Wall nature reserve?

Fewer than 20 cases were identified in the past 8 weeks, according to the RSPB.

Why did the RSPB decide to close the Avalon Hide at the Ham Wall nature reserve?

The Avalon Hide was closed because it is a known Barn Owl feeding site, which could bring people into close proximity with the virus due to the build-up of faeces, pellets, and feathers in and around the hide.

Home / Environment / RSPB Closes Avalon Hide at Somerset Nature Reserve Due to Bird Flu

RSPB Closes Avalon Hide at Somerset Nature Reserve Due to Bird Flu

28 Oct, 2025

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Summary

RSPB confirms bird flu cases in Canada Geese and Mute Swans at Ham Wall
Fewer than 20 cases identified in 8 weeks, mostly in non-public areas
Avalon Hide closed as it's a known Barn Owl feeding site with potential virus exposure

RSPB Closes Avalon Hide at Somerset Nature Reserve Due to Bird Flu

As of October 28th, 2025, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has closed the Avalon Hide at its Ham Wall nature reserve in Somerset, England, due to a recent outbreak of bird flu in the area. The charity has confirmed that Canada Geese and Mute Swans at the reserve have been found to be carrying the disease, though the numbers were "relatively low", with fewer than 20 cases identified over the past 8 weeks.

Fortunately, none of the infected birds were discovered in public areas, so the reserve itself remains open to visitors. However, the RSPB has decided to close the Avalon Hide as a precautionary measure. This particular hide is a known Barn Owl feeding site, which could potentially bring people into close proximity with the virus due to the natural build-up of faeces, pellets, and feathers in and around the structure.