AN outbreak of avian botulism is being blamed for the deaths of 140 birds in Poole Park this summer, it has now been revealed.

The bodies of wildfowl – as many as a dozen in one day at its peak – have been discovered around Poole Park Lake since July as ducks, geese, gulls and even swans were affected by a deadly illness.

Early on lab tests ruled out bird flu and the council offered reassurances that there was no risk to the public – but up until now the reason for the deaths remained a mystery.

Now, with other causes ruled out, and given the symptoms and a countrywide outbreak of the disease this summer, it has been determined that the most like cause of death is avian botulism.

Jeff Morley, regulatory team manager, Borough of Poole, said: “The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency have carried out a range of tests on the dead birds found in Poole Park. The tests for notifiable statutory diseases, such as avian influenza, and other bacteria which may have caused the deaths have all proved negative.

“The most likely cause of death is avian botulism, which has affected wildfowl throughout the country this year but most notably in the north west.

“The number of dead wildfowl found in the park has greatly reduced from a peak in late August. So far 140 birds have been affected. We are confident there is no risk to the public but we would advise dog owners to keep their dogs away from the lakes so that they do not come into contact with any affected birds.”

Avian botulism is caused by a water-soluble toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and is more often seen in warmer weather.

The number of dead wildfowl has been reducing since the weather has been getting cooler, to only one or two a day currently.

Humans are not thought to be in danger, as the disease cannot be spread by touching or being near infected birds.