Paradise Park’s Fight Against Bird Flu: Costs, Challenges, and Community Support

Paradise Park in Hayle has announced its inclusion in an Avian Influenza surveillance zone following confirmed cases of bird flu in the area. The wildlife park, renowned for its collection of 1,200 rare and endangered birds, is stepping up its already rigorous biosecurity measures to protect its avian residents.

Restrictions Impacting Conservation Efforts

The new surveillance zone rules mean Paradise Park is currently unable to move birds off-site or bring new birds in. This restriction affects conservation breeding programmes, where young birds scheduled to join new collections must stay put, and new arrivals for breeding projects are temporarily halted.

The park’s curator, David Woolcock, shared insights into the efforts being made: “A big thank you goes to the amazing Keepers and staff who are working extremely hard behind the scenes and on days off to get the vital additional biosecurity measures in place.”

Biosecurity Measures in Place

Paradise Park operates 53 separate “Epidemiological Units” on-site, with each unit designed as a stand-alone system in case of an outbreak. Each unit has its own cleaning tools, footbaths, protective clothing, and staff member. Visitors are asked to use a walk-through footbath at the entrance, and those keeping birds at home are requested to change clothing and footwear before visiting.

Small sections of the park, including the Tropical House and part of the Tropics exhibit, are temporarily closed. For safety, the flamingos have been moved to a covered off-display area while a new protective polytunnel is constructed.

Rising Costs and How You Can Help

The additional biosecurity measures come at a cost. Items such as Virkon disinfectant, which is vital for footbaths, cost up to £40 a day, totalling £280 a week. Other essential expenses include flat-soled wellington boots at £58.50 per pair, single-use protective clothing, and materials for the flamingo polytunnel, which costs around £350.

David highlighted the dedication of staff, adding a touch of humour: “Standing in a freezing cold footbath for at least fifteen seconds every time you enter an area is no fun in this cold weather. To keep spirits up, every day a rubber egg is hidden in two or three of the footbaths and the finders win a prize! It’s normally chocolate, of course.”

Paradise Park is asking for public donations to support these efforts. Contributions will go towards items like the new polytunnel, disinfectant, and other biosecurity essentials.

How to Donate

If you’d like to help, donations can be made via their special website donation page or through PayPal. Every donation will help protect the health and welfare of the birds.

The park remains open to visitors, who are encouraged to come and show their support. While the flamingos are currently off display, the rest of the park’s incredible bird collection can still be enjoyed.

Paradise Park staff expressed their gratitude for the community’s understanding and support during this challenging time.