It is with great sadness that we have now received the results of the tests from DEFRA which have confirmed that it is indeed avian flu.

Unfortunately, the outbreak occurred at the height of the breeding season when hundreds of Sandwich terns, common terns and black headed gulls come to Poole Harbour and nest on the islands in the Brownsea lagoon. For this reason, the majority of the 600 dead birds found were chicks which will potentially have a serious impact on future bird populations.

The area which includes the lagoon and the surrounding reedbeds and woodlands will remain closed for the foreseeable future. The closure is to enable the Brownsea team to monitor and manage this very difficult and distressing situation and to reduce any risk of spreading the disease.

The rest of Brownsea Island is still open to the public and all visitor events are taking place with ferries running from Poole Quay as normal. A limited pre-bookable boat service is also available from Sandbanks jetty. We are very sorry for any disappointment and inconvenience that the closure has caused and will provide further updates as soon as we can.

Thank you for your understanding. 

If you find a sick or dead bird do not touch it, and keep dogs away. Please report any sick or dead birds here or call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77).