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Written question asked by Manuela Perteghella (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 10 February 2026 (named day). It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 February 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Swans: Avian Influenza

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether her Department has assessed a risk of localised extinction of swan populations as a result of outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza in (a) England, (b) Warwickshire, and (c) Stratford-on-Avon.

Answer

Defra recognises the significant threat avian influenza poses to wild birds and the impact this is having on these important species.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency undertake year-round surveillance of avian influenza in wild birds across Great Britain, reporting findings on GOV.UK and on their interactive map and dashboard.

Alongside surveillance, long-term population monitoring and targeted research is crucial to understanding the impacts of avian influenza on England and Wales’s wild bird populations. While Defra has not carried out an assessment of risk of local extinction in the named areas, information on wild bird population monitoring schemes run by Government agencies and partner organisations, as well as the Defra and Welsh Government approach to avian influenza in wild birds, can be found in the Mitigation Strategy for Avian Influenza in Wild Birds in England and Wales.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
110551
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Avian influenza Swans
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk