The council was warned by The Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA)
12:57, 20 Feb 2026Updated 12:58, 20 Feb 2026
Locals have been warned(Image: Google Maps)
West Lothian Council have issued advice for locals after a confirmed breakout of avian flu. Sharing a statement on social media, officials said the risk to humans “remains low” but people should still be taking “precautions”.
The council was warned by The Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA) of a case at Swinburn Wood, commonly known as Paddy Higgins Wood/Quarry.
Signage has been put in place at entrances and footpaths to provide warning. Locals have been urged to keep to paths, keep dogs on leads and do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings.
A statement from West Lothian Council reads: “The council has been informed by The Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA) of a confirmed case of avian flu at Swineburn Wood known locally as Paddy Higgins Wood/Quarry.
“Warning signage has been placed at entrances and footpaths to the site. The risk to humans remains low but people should still take precautions: Keep to footpaths, keep dogs on leads, do not feed the waterfowl, do not pick up or touch sick wild birds and do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings.
“Further instances of dead waterfowl can be reported to Defra’s GB helpline: 03459 335577. The council’s Trading Standards team has issued a reminder to not touch or pick up any dead, wild bird, unless it is absolutely necessary, but leave it in situ.
“The risks to humans is very low, and taking a few simple precautions around can help prevent any issues. Any birds found on public land can be reported to the council via Report a Dead Animal. Dead birds on private land are the responsibility of the land owner.
“If you find a dead bird of prey, three or more gulls or wildfowl species (particularly wild geese, wild ducks, swans) or find five or more birds of any other species in the same location and at the same time, please report these incidents to Defra’s national helpline telephone 03459 335577. You should not touch or handle the dead birds.
“Guidance for the public has been issued by APHA and the Scottish Government on what to do if dead birds are found. It can be found on Avian Influenza (bird flu) information from the Avian Flu guidance(opens new window).”