WWT Martin Mere reopen

We closed our doors on Thursday 23 October, according to government guidelines. Since then, we’ve been working with the relevant government agencies to take measures to protect the birds at our wetland centre.

Testing, conducted by the UK government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), confirms we have avian influenza in some of our collection birds. These birds reside in an enclosed area, away from areas used by visitors. A full inspection of the site has been conducted, and strict measures have been put in place, to contain the bird disease and to protect the rest of our collection birds, our staff and visitors.

We’re therefore pleased to be able to reopen to visitors as normal. Both APHA and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advise that the risk to public health from the virus is very low.

If you booked to visit us while we were closed, your admission tickets are still valid on any alternative date. We’re looking forward to seeing you this week, and sharing the magic of autumn at the wetlands centre with you.

Frequently asked questions

I’m worried about visiting when there’s avian influenza on site.

We completely understand this can be unsettling. To reassure you, bird-to-human transmission of avian influenza is extremely rare. The UK government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advise that the risk to public health is very low.

What measures are you taking on site to make sure everyone is safe?

An enclosed, staff-only area away from the visitor’s centre has been contained to prevent the spread of the bird disease and protect the rest of our collections. Our staff are fully trained to manage their own safety, as well as the birds, and are fully equipped with PPE. Disinfectant mats are also distributed around the site, which further help to prevent any spread of the disease.

I’d rather visit you another time.

If you’d rather visit us on another day, admission tickets will be valid on any alternative date. If you’d prefer to receive a refund, please contact our Supporter Services team on tickets@wwt.org.uk.

The UK government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency and UK Health Security Agency advise that the risk to public health from the virus is very low.

If you find a sick or dead bird out in the wild, please do not touch it or pick it up. Please report via Defra. More information here.

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, can be carried by wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe during the winter.

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