Dead swans wash ashore in Estonia as bird flu fears rise again

Dead swans have been washing up along the beaches of Viimsi and Pirita. Authorities suspect bird flu is the cause, as infections were already confirmed in local waterfowl. The public has been warned not to touch the carcasses due to health risks.

The outbreak is not confined to swans, though they are currently the most visible victims along the shoreline. The public has been advised to avoid handling sick or dead birds and to contact Estonia's state hotline at 1247 for guidance.

Estonia has dealt with avian flu outbreaks before. Since 2005, the Veterinary and Food Board has monitored wild birds, tested dead specimens for H5N1, and set up protection zones when needed. In 2021, a similar response took place near Pärnu, including culling infected birds and enforcing biosecurity on poultry farms. Local governments are responsible for removing carcasses, with support from the Police and Border Guard Board (PTA). In Viimsi, contractor Jäägriabi OÜ handles collections on the same day, but rising numbers are causing delays. In Pirita, the task falls to beach maintenance firm HKP OÜ, which must respond within two hours. Some delays have occurred in Tallinn, though officials expect these to be resolved soon. The PTA will not conduct further testing on the dead swans, as bird flu has already been confirmed in the area.

The situation highlights the ongoing threat of avian flu in Estonia's wild bird population. Authorities continue to rely on established protocols, including public warnings, rapid carcass removal, and biosecurity measures. Residents are urged to report sightings but avoid direct contact with affected birds.