Forestry and Land Scotland is advising visitors to Carron Valley to avoid touching dead or apparently dying birds.

The advice follows an apparent, but unconfirmed report of a number of dead gulls on an island in Loch Carron. Several birds have also been washed ashore.

FLS Area Visitor Services Manager, Katy Mcgregor, said;

“We are aware that a number of dead seabirds have been reported in the area and we have notified Scottish Water, DEFRA and the relevant local authorities. 

“It is very important that people do not touch dead or dying birds, and that they keep their dogs away from them as well.

“Avian flu is extremely contagious amongst birds and while transmission to humans is very rare, it is important the we all do what we can to prevent assisting the spread of the disease.”

Anyone finding dead birds that they think might have succumbed to avian flu should immediately notify the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). 

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.

2. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.