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Thirsk Birds of Prey Centre, based at Sion Hill Hall, Thirsk, revealed over the weekend that it wouldn't be opening its doors until the risk has been reduced. Over the years, the bird of prey centre has been a popular choice for families in the region, but the attraction said it would remain closed for the time being. In a statement, the centre said: "Unfortunately, we have taken the difficult decision to delay re-opening to the public this season due to several factors, the main one being our very close proximity to various commercial poultry farms.
"As sadly expected, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been detected at a nearby commercial poultry farm. "The outbreak of Avian bird flu has been confirmed in the last 48 hrs. "We are within a DEFRA-enforced 10km Surveillance Zone to this farm.
"Therefore, we do not want to take unnecessary risks with our collection of birds to this awful disease whilst new cases are being reported." The centre added that by early April, it will be able to reassess whether it can reopen. There have been 47 reported cases of bird flu so far during winter and spring.
Recommended reading: The statement added: "Pre-booked Experience days will be contacted directly by the centre before the booked experience day to check on any recent interactions with poultry or wildfowl and offer guidance prior to visiting. "We are looking forward to welcoming you back to the centre to see our fantastic team of birds once the risk is more manageable. "Thank you for your understanding with this difficult decision, but we must put our bird’s welfare first.
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