Fota Wildlife Park Temporarily Closed Due to Avian Influenza Outbreak
Table of Contents
H5N1 Confirmed, Leading to Challenging Decisions
Fota Wildlife Park, a leading visitor attraction located 10km east of Cork city, has confirmed an outbreak of H5N1 Avian Influenza. As of today, October 22, 2023, eleven cases have been identified within the park’s Greylag Goose population. In response, a number of geese have been humanely euthanized as a preventative measure to curb the spread of the virus and protect the park’s wider collection of rare and valuable species.
Park officials described the decision as “extremely difficult” but necessary, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the park’s conservation efforts. The park’s collection represents a significant genetic resource, making preventative action crucial.
Mitigation Measures and Temporary Closure
Fota Wildlife Park has temporarily closed to the public for several weeks while implementing enhanced biosecurity protocols. These measures, developed in consultation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, aim to isolate the park’s bird species from potential infection from wild bird populations in the Cork Harbour area. Temporary aviaries have been constructed to further minimize contact with wild birds.
The park is treating the situation with “the utmost seriousness” and is committed to reopening only when it is officially deemed safe to do so. Visitors are encouraged to check the park’s website for updates on the reopening date.
Impact and Visitor Information
Fota Wildlife Park is a popular destination, attracting approximately 430,000 visitors annually. The temporary closure will impact tourism in the region, but park officials are prioritizing the health and safety of both the animals and the public. the park anticipates welcoming visitors back as soon as conditions allow, and will provide updates as they become available.