An update on avian influenza

Update: 07/12/2022

Following the announcement yesterday that we had confirmed cases of avian influenza amongst our penguin population, we can confirm that four birds died from the illness.

A further four penguins tested positive for avian influenza and, by law, had to be euthanased yesterday afternoon.

The penguins that tested negative will be isolated indoors for 21 days and retested before being given the all-clear.

We continue to work with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and the Department of Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to ensure all the necessary biosecurity measures are in place.

We have been able to demonstrate how our Birds Team works and our contingency plan, and as a result authorities have advised that the park can remain open. 

Our Energy for Life: Tropical House and walkthrough aviaries will continue to be closed, our flamingos have been brought under a covered area of their enclosure and our penguins have been brought indoors and are completely off-show.

Fortunately, because of the conservation value of our bird collection, special derogation is in place, meaning only those that test positive have to be euthanased.

We’d like to thank all of our dedicated staff who are pulling together to ensure the welfare of all of our animals remains a top priority at this very difficult time.

Thanks also to the many kind supporters who have sent messages of condolence and support. We are open as usual from 10am – 4pm daily.

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First posted 06/12/2022:

We were informed yesterday that a number of our penguins had tested positive for avian influenza. Unfortunately, these birds died as a result of their illness.

We are working with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to ensure all necessary biosecurity measures are in place.

Marwell Zoo is open as usual, for all our day guests and for our Glow Marwell evening event.

At this time, guests will be unable to access our Energy For Life: Tropical House and walkthrough aviaries so that we can help to keep our other birds safe.

Our flamingos have been brought under a covered area of their enclosure and the penguins are off-show.

We have already been taking precautions, including foot dips for guests and these will continue to be in place while we investigate.

We look forward to continuing to welcome both day guests and Glow Marwell ticket holders and will update our social media and website with new information when it is available.

Thanks as always to our dedicated animal and veterinary teams for working so hard to ensure the health and wellbeing of our animals.