Paignton Zoo closed to public after suspected bird flu outbreak

Paignton Zoo has been closed due to a suspected case of bird flu.

The Devon zoo says its main priority is to protect its birds after a number of avian flu outbreaks have been reported across the region.

In a statement on Monday 29 August, it said: “Our main priority at this time is to protect our birds and as a conservation charity we are working with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and complying with their requirements in order to minimise the spread of this viral infection.”

The zoo has confirmed it will remain closed today (Tuesday 30 August).

It comes as people are being asked to report any sightings of dead birds to the government's Environment Agency, amid what the RSPB charity has described as the worst bird flu outbreak they have ever seen in wild birds.

The zoo will update members of the public later this afternoon (August 29) on when they can safely reopen.

Visitors with pre-booked tickets will be issued a full refund, processed over the next week.

• Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know