WITH winter fast approaching, Denbighshire County Council is offering advice to owners of poultry and game birds to be aware of the potential risk of bird flu.

The risk of the HPAI (bird flu) virus increases during the winter.

Migratory waterfoul (ducks, geese and swans) and gulls are the most likely causes, based on the experiences of the last two winters and the opinion of vets and scientists.

There have been numerous recent findings of bird flu in wild birds from sites across the UK.

To report and dispose of dead birds, please call the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 if you find one or more dead bird of prey or owl; three or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks) or five or more dead birds of any species.

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Please also contact the Natural Resources Wales helpline on 0300 065 3000.

People are advised not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick wild birds they find.

Any sick or injured birds found should be reported to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 who may be able to offer assistance.

Anyone who keeps poultry or game birds are asked to register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency, so they can be kept informed of any disease outbreak in their area.

They will be provided with updates by email or text, which will allow them to protect their flock at the earliest opportunity.

To register, go to: www.gov.uk/government/publications/poultry-keeping-customer-registration or call the GB Poultry register helpline on 0800 634 1112.