So sad to behold! RSPB explains why it allows scores of avian influenza victims to lie unattended on its reserves

Allowed to rot. One of dozens of dead gulls in public view  at RSPB Frampton Marsh

THE RSPB has explained why it is mostly refraining from removing dead victims of avian influenza on its nature reserves - at least for the time being.

Says the bird conservation charity: "In most cases we are not collecting dead birds unless their location creates a significant public health risk. 

"This is because handling dead or dying birds is a health risk for our workforce.

"Removing dead birds can also cause disturbance and unnecessary flight among birds. 

"Unnecessary bird movement uses energy that the birds need to conserve to be more resilient to the disease. 

"Their movement can also spread the disease further.  

 "Disposal of dead birds is also a significant issue as they are covered by animal by-products legislation (due to the public health risk), which means they have to be taken to an approved facility for disposal." 

 The charity adds: "This is a difficult balancing act and local reserve staff are keeping the situation under constant review. 

"For some species and situations there may be a conservation benefit to remove birds to prevent spread. 

"We are urgently calling for further research and guidance on this from the Government and may change our approach."

The reserve in Lincolnshire where, sadly, there are many dead birds

The Wryneck says: The RSPB's policy is not entirely convincing. At its Frampton Marsh reserve, near Boston, dozens of corpses (mostly of black-headed gulls) have been conspicuous, some very close to observation hides. It has made a distressing spectacle, not just for adults but also for the many children who visited the reserve over the recent bank holiday. What sort of 'visitor experience' was it for them? What sort of memories will they retain? What does it say about  conservation? One is very reluctant to be critical of RSPB policy, especially given that its reserve staff, many of them volunteers, do a remarkable job. But, even if it involves engaging professionals in wearing white hazard overalls, the corpses at Frampton should should be removed.