Found a Dead Wild Bird

If you have found a dead wild bird (such as a seagull, swan, duck, or crow), please do not touch it with your bare hands. Wild birds can carry diseases, including avian influenza (bird flu), which can pose risks to people and pets.

What to Do

• Do not bring dead birds to the veterinary clinic – vets are not licensed to dispose of wild birds
• Keep pets and children away from the bird
• Report the bird using the free Avian Check app (recommended by the Department of Agriculture). Your report helps national surveillance of avian influenza
• If you need the bird removed, contact your local council.
• In Dublin, call Dublin City Council Animal Welfare Unit on 01 222 6060 (Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, weekends 11am–3pm), or report via the Council’s Citizen Hub online.

How to Handle Safely (if necessary)

If the bird must be moved (for example, if it is in a public pathway):

• Wear disposable gloves
• Use a shovel or similar tool
• Place the bird in a double-bag, tie securely, and keep out of reach of animals until the council collects it
• Wash hands thoroughly afterwards