FOTA WILDLIFE PARK will remain closed for “a number of weeks” after captive birds tested positive for bird flu last week.

In a statement this morning the park confirmed it will remain closed until further notice, including next week’s mid-term break.

The park has identified eleven confirmed cases of bird flu amongst its greylag goose population. They believe the cases originated from the wild bird population in Cork Harbour.

The park has implemented measures to prevent further spread of the virus, including vaccination, isolating their bird populations and constructing temporary aviaries to house birds for the winter months.

The park have also euthanised some of the affected goose population, which they said was a “difficult, last-resort measure is necessary to prevent wider transmission”.

Director Aileen Tennant said it’s “an extremely difficult time for everyone at Fota Wildlife Park”.

She said the actions are being taken “based on expert veterinary advice” and the “vast majority of birds in the Park” are “healthy and showing no symptoms of illness”.

“I want to reassure the public that while our gates remain closed, our animal care team is continuing to deliver the highest standards of care for all of the animals at Fota Wildlife Park”, she added.

“ We look forward to being able to welcome visitors back to the Park when the site is officially deemed safe to reopen.” 

The park initially closed for two days after the disease was discovered. 

The closure was then extended after four captive birds that died there were found to be carrying the disease.