‘A possible extinction event’: the UK’s worst bird flu outbreak

The UK is in the middle of its worst outbreak of bird flu. The
current strain of H5N1 avian influenza has devastated wild bird
populations, killing thousands and affecting threatened species
such as puffins and hen harriers. Bird flu has also been wreaking
havoc on poultry, and since 7 November, all captive birds in
England have been kept indoors to prevent them catching the virus.
How are both wild and captive bird populations coping with the
current strain of avian flu? And is the UK prepared to deal with
another major animal disease outbreak? Ian Sample speaks with
Phoebe Weston, a biodiversity writer for the Guardian, and Paul
Wigley, a professor in animal microbial ecosystems at the
University of Bristol.. Help support our independent journalism at
theguardian.com/sciencepod