HUNDREDS of birds have been found dead after a confirmed case of avian flu at a Dorset nature reserve.

The Dorset Wildlife Trust says hundreds of birds have now been found dead on Brownsea Island. 

The majority were reportedly chicks which experts say will potentially have a serious impact on future bird populations.

The nature reserve on Brownsea Island was closed in mid-June following a suspected outbreak of bird flu.

However, a positive case on the popular tourist destination has now been confirmed.

An update on the trust's website reads: “It is with great sadness that we have now received the results of the tests from the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) which have confirmed that it is indeed avian flu.

“Unfortunately, the outbreak occurred at the height of the breeding season when hundreds of Sandwich terns, common terns and black headed gulls come to Poole Harbour and nest on the islands in the Brownsea lagoon.

“For this reason, the majority of the 600 dead birds found were chicks which will potentially have a serious impact on future bird populations.”

READ MORE: Nature reserve still closed following report of suspected avian flu

The statement adds: “The area which includes the lagoon and the surrounding reedbeds and woodlands will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

The closure is to enable the Brownsea team to monitor and manage this very difficult and distressing situation and to reduce any risk of spreading the disease.”

The remainder of Brownsea Island remains open to visitors with ferries running from Poole Quay as normal.

A limited pre-bookable boat service is also available from the Sandbanks jetty.

The trust has apologised for any disappointment and inconvenience that the closure has caused.

Anyone who suspects bird flu in poultry or other captive birds should report it immediately by calling Defra 03000 200 301.

The Daily Echo has contacted the trust for more information.